The Importance of Being Earnest

The Importance Of Being Earnest

Presented by OVO

By Oscar Wilde

Adapted and Directed by Adam Nichols

OVO’s sparkling new production transports Oscar Wilde’s comic masterpiece to the roaring 1920s, a world overflowing with style, glitz, and glamour.

Featuring a talented cast of actor-musicians, a live on-stage band seamlessly threads jazz-styled contemporary chart hits (think RAYE, Madonna, Lizzo and Eminem) through Wilde’s hilarious, razor-sharp dialogue.

Join Jack, Algy, Gwendolen and Cecily as engagements multiply, handbags are examined and a single name turns society upside-down. This Earnest is witty, romantic and gloriously playful.

In this vibrant 1920s setting, the female characters take the centre stage. Powered by agency and confidence, they are brought to life with refreshing strength. The traditional dynamics of the text shift delightfully, with relationships pioneered as much by female courtship as male.

In the spirit of Wilde’s own description, it is a production "exquisitely trivial, searchingly serious," delivered here with enormous wit, playfulness, and heart.

“A crowd-pleasing, entertaining update.” The Stage

“An exquisitely entertaining production.” The Upcoming

“Brings new life to a classic - comedy at its absolute best.” Herts Advertiser