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Present Laughter: Cocktail recipes to try at home

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Two people sit closely together indoors, staring at each other with serious expressions. The man on the left wears a light gray sweatshirt, and the woman on the right wears a light blouse with a tie feature. Both have dark hair and are in a modern setting with soft lighting.

Present Laughter with Andrew Scott returns to cinemas on 18 July with National Theatre Live and what better way to get yourself in the mood than fun cocktails inspired by the show’s icons, who love a drink!

The Cocktails

A glass of grapefruit cocktail garnished with two slices of citrus fruit, served on a white tablecloth. The drink contains ice cubes and is set against a blurred background, emphasizing the vibrant color of the beverage.

‘The Garry Essendine’

Something charming and classy with a summery twist to take you back to the ‘40s, with thanks to Lasdun Restaurant for the recipe. You can also taste this tipple at their restaurant within the National Theatre building.

What you’ll need:

  • 75ml grapefruit juice
  • 45ml Gin (or non-alcoholic alternative)
  • 20ml Aperol (or non-alcoholic alternative)
  • 15ml Sugar syrup (sugar mixed with water and heated)
  • 3 basil leaves

How to make it:

Add ingredients to a cocktail shaker then shake and simply strain into a glass over ice. Garnish with basil and a slice of grapefruit.

A tall glass filled with an orange-hued drink sits on a white tablecloth. The glass is garnished with a green olive and a lemon wedge, both skewered on a cocktail pick. The background includess a blurred view of shelves containing bottles.

‘The Bullshot’

Playwright Noël Coward’s ultimate favourite drink, a savoury and curious hangover cure– try if you dare!

What you’ll need:

  • 50ml vodka
  • 100ml chilled beef bouillon
  • 4 drops of Tabasco
  • A dash of Worcestershire sauce
  • The juice of ½ a lemon
  • Salt and pepper (optional)

How to make it:

Add ingredients to a cocktail shaker then shake and strain into a rocks glass over ice.

Share your creations with us on socials! Tag us at @NTLive and @NationalTheatre.

Find your local venue for Present Laughter

A man in a relaxed pose sits, leaning on a patterned cushion. The background features a blue wall with decorative mirrors and lighting fixtures. He is wearing a light gray sweater and white trousers, gazing thoughtfully upwards.
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