Kenilworth group presents plenty of laughs

Two years after setting their sights on the playwright’s work, Present Laughter, the amateur dramatics group is finally able to bring it to the stage.

The original production was cancelled because of a technical problem, but now six of cast members chosen for it at the time are happy to be reprising their roles and be joined by four newcomers.

The comedy focuses on Gary Essendine, a famous actor who has it all - wealth, fame, good looks and a tightly knit group which panders to his every whim. The group consists of his friends, Henry and Morris, his ex-wife, Liz, and his secretary, Monica.

Trouble looms when Henry marries Joanna - young, beautiful and predatory.

She is determined to break up the group. Having seduced Morris, she sets her sights on Gary. As Liz and Monica try to foil her plans, the situation becomes increasingly complicated.

Add a stage-struck girl and her battle-axe mother, a wildly-eccentric young writer, a Swedish housekeeper and a cheeky manservant, and you have all the ingredients for an entertaining night out.

Director Dixie Atkins said: “I sometimes experiences deja vu, but Coward’s witty one-liners are just as amusing second time around. I hope that all those who booked previously will be booking again.”

The show is on now and runs at the theatre in Rosemary Hill until Saturday May 12. For tickets, call 863334 between 2pm and 8pm.