A new adaptation of Oscar Wilde’s much-loved comedy of manners – The Importance of Being Earnest – will be performed at The Georgian Theatre Royal, Richmond.
The theatre is one of six venues selected as part of a national tour by HangFire Theatre Company and follows sell-out runs of their previous productions The Twelve Pound Look and A Doll’s House.
Set in London 1895, this is a “trivial comedy for serious people”.
Brimming with the quick-fire wit and sparkling dialogue with which Wilde’s name is synonymous, the play follows the antics of two young men, Algernon and Jack.
Jack loves Gwendolen. Algernon loves Cecily; though both ladies are engaged to the roguish Ernest – much to the disapproval of the formidable Lady Bracknell.
Unfortunately, Ernest doesn’t actually exist and when his true identity is revealed, being earnest takes on a whole new meaning.
Helga Pearson, spokesperson for the theatre, said the play was Wilde’s most popular and enduring stage comedy.
“Although a huge success when it opened in February 1895, it triggered the famous libel case which led to Oscar Wilde’s imprisonment and downfall.
“The play challenges the artificial barriers surrounding class and privilege and was a powerful tool in sparking change in society at the time it was written.
“However, the themes are still highly relevant today and the original work retains its remarkable appeal, captivating audiences all over the world.”
HangFire’s The Importance of Being Earnest has been adapted by Artistic Director Rory Stuart and stars Jacob Anderton (Algernon), Arabella Arnott (Lady Bracknell / Miss Prism, Sarah Boulter (Gwendolen), Jamie Brown (Jack) and Charlotte Ryder (Cecily).
The show will be staged on Saturday, March 19 at 2.30pm and 7.30pm.
Tickets cost £16 and are available from the Box Office on 01748 825252 or online at www.georgiantheatreroyal.co.uk
