Take a behind the scenes look at the upcoming UK tour of Noël Coward’s classic comedy Present Laugher, directed by Lindsay Posner. Actress, playwright and columnist Tracy-Ann Oberman stars alongside James Dreyfus and Adrian Lukis.
Embarking on a UK tour this autumn is Present Laughter, Noël Coward’s celebrated portrayal of the pitfalls of theatrical celebrity. Reimagined by Tracy-Anne Oberman, who also stars, this new production sees the lead character played by a female lead for the first time.
Oberman stars as the reimagined Geri Essendine (formerly Garry Essendine, a role Coward himself originated) opposite James Dreyfus and Adrian Lukis.
Present Laughter will play Theatre Royal Bath from Thursday 27 August to Saturday 5 September 2026, before heading out on a national tour.
View live availability for Present Laughter here
Photos: The cast of Present Laughter in rehearsals
The cast of Present Laughter
The story follows Geri Essendine, a hugely successful actress who has been 39 for the best part of a decade. Her personality, wit and charm have earned her a legion of devoted fans, young and old, and a coterie of friends, acquaintances and hangers-on. Just as she is about to depart for a tour of Africa, Geri finds herself besieged by a bevvy of would-be lovers, not to mention her long-suffering secretary, estranged husband and an obsessed young playwright. Will she ever disentangle herself from their tightening clutches and incessant demands? And deep down, does she really want to…?
The cast includes:
- Tracy-Ann Oberman (EastEnders, Friday Night Dinner) as Geri Essendine
- James Dreyfus (The Thin Blue Line, Lady in the Dark) as Monty.
- Adrian Lukis (Pride and Prejudice, Black Mirror) as Len
- Richenda Carey as Lady Saltburn
- Seb Carrington as David Stillington
- Eva Feiler as Rosina Maule
- Gabriella Foley as Miss Erikson
- Charlotte Randle as Henrietta
- Jonathan Tafler as Morris
- Perry Williams as Fred
- Kit Young as Johannes
This hilarious production is directed by Lindsay Posner, following recent West End triumphs of Noises Off starring Felicity Kendal, A View from the Bridge starring Dominic West and The Deep Bue Sea starring Tamsin Greig.
Posner is joined on the creative team by Set and Costume Designer Peter McKintosh, Lighting Designer Richard Howell, Composer and Sound Designer Adam Cork and Casting Director Ginny Schiller CDG.
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