PRESENT LAUGHTER has announced full casting for a major new revival of Noël Coward’s classic comedy, co-produced by Theatre Royal Bath Productions and Augusta Productions. The upcoming production will open at the Theatre Royal Bath on Thursday 27 August and run until Saturday 5 September 2026, ahead of an extensive autumn national tour that includes stops in Cambridge, Malvern, Richmond, Cheltenham, York, Poole, Liverpool, and Chichester.
This fresh adaptation is reimagined by actress, playwright, and columnist Tracy-Ann Oberman, who will also star in the lead role of Geri Essendine. This marking the first time the iconic character has been portrayed by a female lead, having been traditionally written as Garry and originally played on stage by Coward himself. The innovative production represents the second time Oberman has reframed a classic text to take on a traditionally male role, following her highly acclaimed performance as Shylock in The Merchant of Venice 1936.
Oberman is joined by a stellar principal cast, including James Dreyfus in the role of Monty and Adrian Lukis as Len. Dreyfus is widely known for his television comedy roles in Gimme Gimme Gimme and The Thin Blue Line, alongside an Olivier Award-winning stage career. Lukis brings extensive screen experience from prominent titles such as Pride and Prejudice, The Crown, and Black Mirror. The ensemble is completed by Richenda Carey, Seb Carrington, Eva Feiler, Gabriella Foley, Charlotte Randle, Jonathan Tafler, Perry Williams, and Kit Young.
The narrative follows Geri Essendine, a hugely successful actress whose charm and wit have earned her a legion of devoted fans and a constant circle of hangers-on. Just as she prepares to depart for a theatrical tour of Africa, Geri finds herself besieged by a bevvy of would-be lovers, her long-suffering secretary, her estranged husband, and an obsessed young playwright, creating a hilarious crisis of celebrity.
The production is directed by Lindsay Posner, following his recent West End successes with Noises Off and A View From the Bridge. The creative team also features set and costume design by Peter McKintosh, lighting design by Richard Howell, and compositions by Adam Cork.
