Play Power - Present Laughter

In partnership with the University of Chichester, these panel discussions led by Professor Simon Barker offer insight into selected productions.

Linked to our production of Present Laughter, explore key themes in Noel Coward's work including class, relationships and self-deprecation.

Simon Barker is Professor of English Literature at University of Chichester, having worked at several universities and at Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama. His books include an edition of John Ford’s ‘Tis Pity She’s a Whore; Thomas Deloney’s The Gentle Craft; Shakespeare’s Problem Plays and Literature as History. He is currently writing a new biography of the playwright and novelist John Galsworthy.

Peter Billingham is Professor of Modern Drama & Performance at the University of Winchester and a visiting tutor at the University of Chichester. He is an award-winning dramatist, his play The Likeness being the recipient of the British Theatre Challenge 2016. Books include Edward Bond: A Critical Study and At the Sharp End, nominated for The Theatre Book Prize.

Paula Scorrer is currently studying BA English Language and Literature at University of Chichester. Paula has previously worked in healthcare and education, and is interested in socio-historical literature and linguistics.

Sandra Young is currently studying BA (Hons) English Literature at University of Chichester, having previously worked in the public sector. Sandra is particularly interested in the role of education in social mobility.