CCP’s National Theatre Live elaborates on the price of fame with Inter Alia and Present Laughter
Through its National Theatre Live (NTL) program, the Cultural Center of the Philippines screens London productions of INTER ALIA and PRESENT LAUGHTER in Philippine theaters this October, featuring performances that reveal the chaos and complications that come with the limelight.
Recorded live from the theaters of London, catch Present Laughter at Glorietta 4 Cinema and Inter Alia at Ayala Malls Vertis North and Ayala Malls Central Bloc Cebu at 6 PM, on October 28, 2025.
A comical reflection on fame and solitude
Drawn from a line in William Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, Present Laughter encapsulates the “carpe diem” spirit. It is a poignant play written by the witty Noël Coward, urging the audience to abandon all inhibitions and fully live in the moment.
Present Laughter follows Garry Essendine, a self-absorbed stage actor whose life begins to spiral out of control. As he prepares for an overseas tour, he is forced to confront the fragility of fame amidst a whirlwind of lovers, sex, admirers, and professional obligations.
Under the direction of Matthew Warchus (Matilda the Musical), actor Andrew Scott (Vanya, All of Us Strangers, Fleabag) brings Garry to life. He shows the musings of a person’s vanity, identity, and the thirst for validation. Captured live from The Old Vic in London, Present Laughter has been praised for its comical and emotional depth.
A liminal space between justice and motherhood
Inter Alia is a gripping drama written by Suzie Miller and directed by Justin Martin. Its protagonist, Jessica Parks, is an accomplished London Crown Court Judge who intricately handles her professional authority and personal responsibilities. As she juggles her career with being a working mother, an event threatens to throw her life off balance.
Award-winning Rosamund Pike, known for her portrayals of intellectually competent and ambiguous women, profoundly describes how Jessica challenged the legal system. As it questions and dismantles the foundations of Jessica’s values, Inter Alia explores the moral dilemma surrounding justice and gender in the modern age.
From the creative team behind Prima Facie, Inter Alia has been hailed as a raw and nuanced portrayal of masculinity and motherhood, all set within the realm of justice.
Experience the brilliance of London theater in the Philippines
The CCP’s National Theatre Live, made in partnership with National Theatre Live London and Ayala Malls Cinemas, brings high-quality recordings of British theater productions to Philippine cinemas. While keeping true to its commitment to introduce Filipinos to world-class artistic experiences, CCP presents theater and performance art as a universal language.
Regular tickets of CCP’s National Theatre Live are priced Php350 at Ayala Malls Vertis North and Php300 at Glorietta 4 and Ayala Central Bloc Cebu. Upon presentation of a valid student ID, a discounted price of Php150 is available for students. Visit the cinema ticket booth or book online via www.sureseats.com.
To get the latest updates on CCP’s National Theatre Live and other events, follow the official CCP social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. Visit the CCP website (www.culturalcenter.gov.ph) for more news.
