Changeling Theatre Present - 'Present Laughter' by Noel Coward

“I am apt to worry too much about what people think of me”

Garry Essendine is a superstar actor and personality, gracing the front covers of all the most fashionable magazines. A charismatic playboy, he is the toast of the town on both sides of the pond.

About to embark on another world tour, Garry is suddenly overwhelmed by an identity crisis. With everyone wanting a piece of him, Garry recognises his own toxic desire to be in the spotlight. Essendine, for the keen eye, is an anagram of neediness.

Present Laughter has been billed as “the best comedy of its kind” and is a largely autobiographical play, with many of the characters based on writer Noel Coward’s inner circle. The play is a razor sharp and highly comic exploration of the ups and downs of fame brought up to date in the Instagram age. Where the leading man struggles to present his genuine self above the magnitude of his stage, screen and social media persona.

Directed by Rob Forknall, Present Laughter promises to be hilarious and fast-paced with beautiful design, new music and thrilling performances.

Changeling Theatre produces high quality, entertaining theatre in non-traditional locations for community audiences across South East England. Productions range from re-interpretations of Shakespeare and modern classics to working with new writers and composers to create innovative new theatre.

The amphitheatre style terraces of our enchanting Walled Garden are the perfect setting for some hilarity under the stars. We open The Walled Garden at 6.00pm for you to make yourselves at home and take in the views whilst you enjoy your picnic with friends and family before settling down under a cosy blanket to enjoy first rate theatre - the perfect combination. Please bring rugs or chairs to sit on and don't forget warm layers and blankets for when the evening draws in.

You are welcome to bring your own picnic and alcohol.

FAQs

How long will the Early Bird offer last ?

Early Bird tickets will be available until three months before the performance date. Please note there are limited quantities of Early Bird tickets.

Will tickets be available to purchase on the door ?

Yes - if the show is not sold out. Please note that we do usually sell out in advance.

Are children welcome at the event?

Yes, children are welcome, and tickets are available for children (age 4-16). Please do be considerate of our other guests when deciding whether to bring your younger children.

What should I bring to the event?

Seating for the event is on the grassy terraces in our Walled Garden, so we recommend you bring a blanket to sit on. You may also bring chairs if you wish. As this is an outdoor event you should bring an extra layer of clothing as the air is likely to get chilly as the evening continues. You should also consider checking the weather forecast in advance, and bring an umbrella and waterproofs in the event of rain.

You might also want to bring a torch / head torch.

Due to the gradient of the path from the car park, we advise you to wear flat shoes. High heels are not suitable for this event.

You are welcome to bring a picnic to the event, including alcohol.

Is seating reserved?

No, seating is not reserved. The Walled Garden will be open from 6.00pm for guests to take their seats. We may ask you to sit in certain areas to ensure there is enough space for everyone but we try to be as accommodating as possible.

How long is the performance?

The Walled Garden opens at 6.00pm for you to take your seats and get settled, and the performance begins at 7.00pm. As the show is still in rehearsals we are not yet able to confirm the running time.

Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?

Yes, please bring your printed ticket to the event. If you do not have access to a printer, you can show the ticket on your mobile or tablet and the QR code will be scanned. We cannot guarantee entry without your ticket.

What happens if it rains?

If light showers are forecast the performance will continue. Please do check the weather forecast in advance, and remember to bring your umbrellas and waterproofs if required.

Performances are only cancelled in storm conditions. In the unfortunate event that a performance does need to be cancelled due to weather conditions, the decision will be made 30 minutes before curtain up. An announcement will be made to the audience within the Walled Garden and on Facebook.

What is the refund policy?

Unfortunately, tickets are non-refundable.

If the performance is cancelled due to storm conditions before the performance has started you will be offered a refund for your tickets. The decision to cancel the performance will not be made until 30 minutes before curtain up. In the event of cancellation an announcement will be posted on Facebook.

If the performance is cancelled due to storm conditions after the performance has started you will be offered tickets to an alternative performance by The Changeling Theatre, when possible. We will only be able to offer tickets to alternative performances where tickets are still available.

Is the event accessible?

Although The Walled Garden is accessible, please also be aware that seating is on our grasses terraces. We also have a gravel path leading to the Walled Garden, which can make pushing a wheelchair challanging.

We do have accessible parking by the mainhouse, again the surface here is gravel.

If you would like to discuss your access needs please contact us: [email protected]

I need a carer's ticket

We offer free entry to essential carers, when accompanying someone with additional needs. Please purchase 1 ticket and then add a free carer ticket (or 2 if that is what you need).

If the carer's tickets are showing as sold out please get in touch with us so we can assist you: [email protected]

What are my transport/parking options getting to the event?

Parking at Riverhill Himalayan Gardens is free. As you enter the Gardens our parking is sign-posted to your left. Please be aware that the car park is on a hill, so our gravel walkways and paths are sloped. For accessible parking, please follow the signs down the drive towards Riverhill House.

For further information about how to get to Riverhill Himalayan Gardens, including public transport links, visit our website http://www.riverhillgardens.co.uk/new-findus.html

Can I come earlier?

Your ticket is for the Changeling Theatre production in our Walled Garden, and does not give you access to other areas of the garden. The Walled Garden opens at 6.00pm for you to take your seats. Please do not arrive before then as we will not be able to admit you until 6:00.

Can I bring my dog?

Although we welcome well behaved dogs on leads throughout the season, we are not able to accept dogs to this event.

Where can I contact the organiser with any questions?

If you have any further questions about this event, please contact Kate Westbrook: [email protected] or on 01732 459777.

Host or Publisher Riverhill Himalayan Gardens