Theatre Review: Present Laughter, Theatre Bath Royal
Rating: ★★★★
Running Dates: Thursday 27th August 2026 - Saturday 5th September 2026
Where to see it: Theatre Bath Royal
Duration: 2 hours 40 minutes (incl. interval)
Photography by Simon Annand
Review
An absolute masterclass in verbal smackdowns, takedowns and comebacks that will leave you in stitches!
This Noel Coward classic, loosely known as the most autobiographical of his works takes on larger than life characters and verbal tennis to a a new level. Written in 1939, and first staged in 1942 this theatrical feast for the ears does what Coward does best, taking flawed characters and popping them on a pedestal.
However, this play goes one step further than any other version of this particular present and takes the ageing idol of the play - Garry Essendine and flips the gender so our focus is on Geri Essendine, played to perfection by none other than Tracey-Ann Oberman.
Photography by Simon Annand
Reimagined for the era of the 70’s in New York, New York which was notoriously sleazy but with a thriving underground culture of Studio 54 and all the superstars we still know today including John Travolta & Mick Jagger, was the perfect setting for a character like Geri to survive, thrive and dive.
..And that wardrobe.. wow - every single outfit that was worn was something I aspire to have!
The narrative centres around ‘the firm’, a unit of four high flyers that despite Len’s, Geri’s long suffering ‘estranged’ husband (played skilfully by Adrian Lukis) best efforts to keep the team together all comes to a crashing conclusion by the end in true Coward farcical fashion.
The set design perfectly captures the feel and tone of the 70’s, and the simple soundtrack really establishes the location. Supporting characters really shine and add to the humour. Special shoutout to Eva Feiler who captures the creepily chaotic character of Rosina Maule effortlessly and hilariously. Overall, the acting cannot be faulted whatsoever.
A great night out in Bath, and not one to be missed on its UK tour.
Photography by Simon Annand
Stand Out Quote or Moment: The very raunchy scene prior to the interval. Wow!
See If: Witty dialogue & verbal tennis take your fancy!
Similar Plays: Blithe Spirit, Private Lives, Hay Fever
Written by Steph Clarke
Disclaimer: These tickets were gifted in exchange for an honest review