I’ve seen Andrew Scott in the past on stage in his productions of Hamlet and Sea Wall which both amazed me – Present Laughter was no exception. Although I questioned at first how he would fare playing in a comedy he plays the extravagant character to a tee.
Garry Essendine is a spoilt actor who likes to indulge himself with his sexual desires – whether this be in the form of a girl he picks up at a party or one of his friend’s husband Joe. In each case, much to the amusement of the audience and exasperation of Essendine’s household, they claim to ‘have forgotten their latch keys’, thinking that this will throw people off their scent. Although in the original screenplay Joe was Joanna, I agree with the change as it helps to explain the sense of urgency surrounding keeping it a secret. Unfortunately for Essendine, a one night stand won’t do and the two characters become infatuated with him. The over the top love proclamations and Garry’s near hysteria about not being able to get rid of them only help to heighten the comedic nature of the play.
Out of all the cast members, the one, bar Andrew Scott, who stood out to me the most was Luke Thallan as Roland Maule. His ability to show the desperate nature of his character as he continued to seek the attention of Garry, not to be perturbed by anything was a highlight of the show. Even his ex-wife wants to get back together with him. His persona is so dramatic and over the top that he can’t help but draw people to him.
Despite the fact that people are constantly clamoring for his attention whether it’s to fulfill their sexual desires or demand that he get his act together, you get the idea that no one truly understands Gary – he is this intangible thing that no-one can have. This is beautifully shown when Garry is alone on his apartment with his assistant Mona after his farewell party, he implores her to stay, overwhelmed by a sense of loneliness but his grip on her hand soon fades leaving home to face the silence alone.
Overall this was an incredibly enjoyable play to watch and a much needed comedy in contrast to the horde of depressing plays on at the moment. The acting was amazing especially Andrew Scott and Roland Maule. The one thing that I have learnt is that if Andrew Scott is going to be in a play, book it. You will not be disappointed
On at the Old Vic until August 10th.
A playwright's playwright 