Theatre Royal Bath Productions and Augusta Productions will present a bold new version of Noël Coward’s classic comedy Present Laughter, reimagined by and starring Tracy-Ann Oberman. The production runs at Theatre Royal Bath from 26 August to 5 September 2026, prior to a national tour.
This celebrated play, a witty exploration of theatrical celebrity and its pitfalls, will see Oberman take on the role of Geri Essendine—the first time the character has been played by a female lead. Traditionally portrayed as Garry Essendine, the role was originated by Noël Coward himself.
This marks Oberman’s second time reinterpreting a major male role, following her acclaimed performance as Shylock in The Merchant of Venice 1936. In this new version, Geri Essendine is a hugely successful actress who has been “39 for the best part of a decade.” Her charm and charisma attract a legion of admirers, but as she prepares for a tour of Africa, she becomes entangled in a web of lovers, friends, and an obsessed young playwright.
Will Geri escape their clutches—or does she secretly enjoy the chaos?
The production is directed by Lindsay Posner, whose recent West End successes include Noises Off starring Felicity Kendal, A View From the Bridge with Dominic West, and The Deep Blue Sea starring Tamsin Greig.
Present Laughter plays Theatre Royal Bath from 26 August to 5 September 2026, with press night on 2 September.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
