Coward comedy opens new season in Athlone Little Theatre
Athlone Little Theatre's new season opens with ‘Present Laughter’ by Noël Coward, a brilliant comedy of manners, oozing with charm, sophistication and verbal wizardry amid utter chaos on stage.
Widely considered one of Coward’s theatrical masterpieces, ‘Present Laughter’ was described by The New York Times as “sharp, withering and funny”, while The Telegraph said, "If you don’t understand why Coward is hailed as a genius... here’s your proof."
The drama, directed by the experienced Paddy Martin, revolves around suave and hedonistic Garry Essendine, an ageing matinée idol who treats his actual life as a continuous theatrical performance. We feel his horror at turning 40 and see him cope hilariously with a succession of friends, fans or hangers-on arriving in his London studio. They either want to seduce him, serve him, berate him or befriend him as they whirl in and out of his flat or hide in adjoining rooms.
Just before he escapes on a theatre tour to Africa the full extent of his misdemeanours with this fantastic cast of characters is discovered. And all hell breaks loose. Noel Coward's Present Laughter premiered in the early years of the Second World War in 1942, just as such privileged lives were threatened with fundamental social change. The main character is acknowledged to be based on the author himself, and he even played Gary Essendine in the very first production.
More than 70 years later, this smart and witty farce remains as relevant as ever; dealing with enduring themes like the power of fame and celebrity culture, ageing, and relationships, along with ego and vanity.
A top-class cast of 11 will bring this richly comic romp to local audiences from October 23-30 in Athlone Little Theatre. Gary Essendine is brought to life with aplomb by Joe Brady, with Edel Moriarty in a terrific turn alongside him as his long-suffering ex-wife Liz. His loyal secretary and right-hand woman Monica Reed is skilfully brought to life by Elizabeth Daly, with debutante Daphne Stillington beautifully realised by Emma Harmon.
In her first role with Athlone Little Theatre since 2017, Laura Geraghty Steiner is a scene-stealing Joanna Lyppiate. Another to return after an absence of a few years is Annette Dowling, who takes on the role of the formidable Lady Saltburn.
Other supporting characters include the fantastic Charlie McKeown as aspiring playwright and superfan Roland Maule with experienced performers Ray Kelly and Ronan Flynn as Gary’s friends Henry Hypiatte and Morris Dixon.
Athlone Little Theatre also welcomes, in his first role, the talented Sean Hayes as Gary’s cheeky Cockney servant Fred, alongside his Swedish counterpart, the quirky Miss Erikson played to comic effect by Ekiñe Azcárate.
‘Present Laughter’ by Noël Coward takes place in Athlone Little Theatre from October 23 to 30 inclusive. As is tradition, the first night benefits a local charity and this time around it’s the Athlone and Midlands branch of the Samaritans. To buy tickets for the opening night only, text 086 8576920. For all other nights go to www.athlonelittletheatre.ie or Eventbrite