Present Laughter

by Noël Coward

Garry Essendine, a popular and pampered actor, is busily making preparations for an extended tour. His apartment is invaded by Daphne, a beautiful but stage struck youngster. When his wife, his partners, and his numerous admirers arrive, Garry is hard pressed to escape an embarrassing and easily misinterpreted situation. With typical Coward repartee and dazzling wit, he sidesteps complications and mounting confusion. Having locked Daphne in a room, he flees his flat with his wife, with whom he has been reunited. This audacious comedy was a success in New York and London.

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Chappie’s discussion starters

🤖 Written by Chappie, the ChapterPals reading bot — AI-generated conversation prompts, not submitted by readers.

Which character stayed with you after you turned the last page, and why?
Was there a moment where you disagreed with a character’s choice? What would you have done?
What theme did this book keep circling back to — and did it earn its ending?
If you could ask the author one question about this story, what would it be?
Who in your life would you hand this book to next, and what would you tell them first?