BTG Salutes Noel Coward's 125th Birthday Year In 'Present Laughter'

CHICAGO – The Beverly Theatre Guild hits the boards Feb. 16 through Feb. 18 in Noel Coward’s sophisticated, witty comedy “Present Laughter” in the Baer Theatre at Morgan Park Academy.

Sir Noel Peirce Coward was an English playwright, composer, director, actor, producer, and singer, known for his wit, flamboyance, and what Time magazine called "a sense of personal style, a combination of cheek and chic, pose and poise." It was the conglomeration of his artistic talents that earned him the nickname of “The Master.”

Coward’s 125th birthday is being celebrated in 2024, and many theater groups are staging some of his most famous and beloved plays during this milestone year. His work and style continue to influence popular culture and was said to be the template for the modern rom-com.

“Present Laughter” is a light-hearted farce that celebrates playwright Noël Coward’s legendary wit and larger-than-life persona. Based on Coward himself, actor Garry Essendine is the star of the London theatrical scene at the height of his fame and adored by legions of admirers--perhaps a little too much. Fans regularly throw themselves at Garry’s feet, drawn in by his charm and charisma, throwing his household into chaos.

Daphne Stillington has fainted from unrequited love. Pictured (l. to r.) Garry Essendine (Sean
Henry), Roland Maule (Gabriel Delli), Daphne Stillington (Josie Ellis), Lady Saltburn (Betty Kort),
Fred (Emmanuel Suarez), and Miss Erikson (Meg Massaro). Photo | Camilla Joe-O'Keefe.

In the week before Garry is set to embark on an African tour, he is forced to juggle a besotted young woman with stars in her eyes, an unhinged young playwright obsessed with being in Garry’s presence, his best friend’s wife who is determined to seduce him, his manager, his producer, his secretary, his estranged ex-wife, and an impending mid-life crisis.

A cast of talented locals has been assembled for this comedic farce. In the lead role of Garry is Sean Henry of Beverly. Garry’s estranged wife Liz will be played by Gina Lutvi (Oak Lawn), and the role of his loyal secretary Monica will be played by Jenny Hogan (Oak Lawn). The rest of the ensemble cast includes the talents of Joseph Adlesick (Buena Park), Sherry Anton (Oak Lawn), Tony Carsella (Blue Island), Gabriel Delli (Highland Park), Josie Ellis (Lakeview), Betty Kort (Evergreen Park), Meg Massaro (Beverly), and Emmanuel Suarez (Lakeview).

Noel Coward’s Present Laughter is directed by Beverly resident Glenn Hering and assistant director Gail Lauryn of Morgan Park. The show is co-produced by Tanya Harasym (Oak Lawn) and Margaret Pesquera (Alsip).

Performances are 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 16 and Saturday, Feb. 17, with a 2 p.m. matinee Sunday, Feb. 18. Tickets are now on sale: for adults, $25; U.S. military, seniors and BTG members, $23; and $18 for students (under age 13). Group rates are also available. Purchase tickets online; by calling 773-BTG-TIXS (284-8497) or at the box office one hour before showtime.

The Beverly Theatre Guild is Chicago’s longest running community theater company. BTG plays are performed at the Baer Theater, a 425-seat venue with state-of-the-art sound and lighting, located at 2153 West 111th St. on the Chicago campus of Morgan Park Academy. For information about future productions or joining the troupe, visit Beverly Theatre Guild. Free lot and street parking is available.