Autumn Production of “Present Laughter”

Now in its 61st year, Sligo Drama Circle returns to the stage of the Hawk’s Well Theatre this November with its production of the Noel Coward classic comedy “PRESENT LAUGHTER”.

First staged in 1942, the play surrounds Garry Essendine, a self-obsessed actor who is in the throes of a mid-life crisis. Before he embarks on a tour of Africa, he finds that his past is catching up with him.

The theatre’s favourite leading man suddenly finds himself caught between a fawning ingénue, his estranged wife, a crazed playwright, and his best friend’s wife who wants to seduce him! The comedic events that follow have the makings of a sparkling evening’s entertainment.

The central role of Garry Essendine is played by Robert Fitzpatrick with Niamh Burke playing the role of Daphne Stillington, his young admirer. Shona Heffernan plays the role of Garry’s secretary Monica Reed; Muireann Tóibín plays the role of his housekeeper Miss Erikson and Gerry Ryan plays his valet Fred.

Garry’s ex-wife is played by Sarah Burns; his manager Morris Dixon is played by Paul Cadden; his producer Henry Lyppiatt is played by Barry Deignan; Joanna Lyppiatt is played by Orla Mc Sharry; Roland Maule, an aspiring young playwright, is played by Roy Mitchell; Lady Saltburn, Daphne Stillington’s aunt, is played by Margaret Curley.

One of Noel Coward’s lesser-known plays, “Present Laughter” is nevertheless a sharply written, stylish and very funny play – classic Noel Coward. It’s guaranteed good fun! Present Laughter offers a light, fun-filled evening at the theatre this autumn.

The show runs for four nights – Wednesday November 15th to Saturday November 18th. Booking for the show is through the Hawk’s Well website http://www.hawkswell.com/ or by phoning the Box Office on (071) 916 1518