Noël Cowards play Present Laughter provides a witty and chaotic presentation of loneliness, fame and neediness. Whilst lead, Andrew Scott, presents a beautiful overly dramatic depiction of a narcissistic but incredibly lonely celebrity, desperate for love.
Originally written in 1939 but produced in 1942 due to the Second World War, this play explores Garry Essendine, a famous actor only a few days away from a tour of Africa in which he will leave everyone he cares for behind. This new adaptation explores a modern twist filled with hidden gender swaps that are extremely well moulded together and ultimately barely noticeable.
As for Scott’s performance itself, it unchallenged. His ability to adapt and grow into any role he chooses is a gift. Although the cast of Present laughter create a hilarious and poignant performance of this raunchy thirties drama, it is ultimately Andrew Scott’s show as he gives a stroppy, exaggerated and extreme adaptation of Garry Essendine.
Ultimately, Coward allows for a comedic take on such a powerful and devastating subject matter. Highlighting the importance of celebrity culture and how it can have a detrimental effect on the celebrity themselves through both the people around them and the fans themselves.
5/5 Stars
The Film Nerdette