Present Laughter

Roles

• Garry Essendine - Adult (36-50), Senior (>50), Male

About this piece

Garry Essendine criticizes a young playwright

Summary

The story revolves around a vain, self obsessed but successful British actor, Garry Essendine, as he has to deal with his estranged wife Liz, a young aspiring playwright, his secretary, his female admirers and his approaching 40th birthday. Here we are in the first act of the play. An admirer of his, Daphne Stillington, has entered his apartment and spent the night there. Garry has to usher her out of his place. After dealing with his ex wife Liz, Garry is visited by a young playwright, Roland Maule, who is there to get an opinion on his play. Roland argues that, in order to become immortal, Garry has to act in one of his plays. In this monologue Garry gives a harsh critique of his play and mocks the young playwright.

Tone

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