A star cast will bring a Noel Coward comedy back to life on stage in Richmond next month.

Samuel West and Phyllis Logan play the leads in Coward’s Present Lives at Richmond Theatre from August 1 to 6.

Set in the glamorous world of theatre, the semi-autobiographical play is a witty portrait of a charming diva Garry Essedine (West) who is determined to disregard his advancing years by revelling in endless tantrums and casual affairs.

West is best known for playing Frank Edwards in four series of Mr Selfridge and the BBC’s recent The Hollow Crown.

BAFTA winner Logan’s Downton Abbey character Mrs Hughes was voted by Radio Times as their favourite character throughout the entire series, while her other starring roles include as Lady Jane in Love Joy and Monica in Mike Leigh’s Secrets and Lies.

The cast also includes Rebecca Johnson (The Trip and The Trip to Italy) as Garry’s wife, Zoe Boyle (Downton Abbey, BBC Three’s Witless), Jason Morell (Wilde and Mrs Brown) and Toby Longworth, who was once part of a double act with comedian Bill Bailey.

The show is directed by former Rose Theatre, Kingston, artistic director Stephen Unwin.

Go to atgtickets.com/Richmond

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