‘The Importance of Being Earnest’ is regarded as one of the finest comedies ever written in the English language. It is play that takes its frivolity seriously and offers up opportunities for much finger pointing and ridicule towards Victorian society.
In this touring production co-directors Alex Arksen and Nathan Hawkins squeeze the last ounce of comedy from the script through a stellar and committed cast.
I had the pleasure of seeing it on a barmy summer evening in the splendour of the North Garden of Harvington Hall in Kidderminster; where every word was beautifully articulated and each gesture large enough to captivate the back row of a fully engaged whilst tucking into hampers and champers audience.
Picture by Graeme Braidwood Photography. sSam Jackson absolutely delights as the frolicsome Algernon, skipping in and out gayly, bordering on buffoonery twixt strutting like a peacock – the huge talent that is Tom Lowde turns in another triumph this season as the orphan Jack Worthing, discovered in a handbag. Julie Lloyd takes full advantage of playing one of the grand dames of theatre Lady Bracknell. Full marks to all three on all round ‘Wilde’ perfection.
Amanda Nickless and Chesca Downes make much of their roles as Gwendolen and Cecity the air-headed objects of Algernon and Jacks desires. Completing a joyous team are Gillian Twaite as the sex kitten in disguise Miss Prism, Ade Daniel as Chasuble and Chris Grimley doubling and scene stealing as servants Lane and Merriman.
Picture by Graeme Braidwood Photography. sThis ‘Earnest’ romps and rocks with delight, there are no dull moments and very much to savour. quintessential Englishness served up with style and cucumber sandwiches and dressed by Stewart Snape and Rowan Ward in a non-stop parade of perfect frockery.
Catch it at one of the remaining tour venues and join in the fun
The remaining performances of The Crescent Theatre’s touring production of The Importance of Being Earnest take place in south Birmingham – on July 10 and 11 (Selly Manor) and July 13 (Kitchen Garden Cafe, Kings Heath). Click here for times, tickets and more info.
