Circa Theatre is thrilled to present Oscar Wilde's timeless masterpiece, "The Importance of Being Earnest", directed by
Jonathan Price. This fresh and effervescent take on Wilde's quintessential work invites audiences to indulge in a season
of scintillating wit, mistaken identities, and razor-sharp observations on human hypocrisy.
In an age consumed by appearances, this rendition of "Earnest" offers a mischievous glimpse into our present-day
obsession with identity and the masks we wear. With top buttons undone, Wilde's classic emerges anew - as colourful,
naughty, and subversive as ever.
"An old favourite, brilliantly performed. Imagine a Victorian comedy of manners meeting the digital age's humour and
flamboyance. That's our 'Earnest' for you," says director Jonathan Price.
The production sees a talented ensemble of Aotearoa’s finest comic actors taking the stage like a jazz band tearing
through a bop classic. Drawing inspiration from modern culture, Price aims to delve into the continuous games of
identity we play, celebrating the delightful absurdities intrinsic to our human behaviours.
"Everyone says 'Be yourself!'" remarks Price, "but Wilde playfully asks, 'where's the fun in that?'"
To capture the spirit of transformation, the production is set to feature imaginative costuming, bold characterisation,
and hyper-theatricality. The aim is not to deliver a political statement, but to celebrate the brilliance of Wilde's
text, enabling the comedy of manners to shine through.
"Ernest is your fantasy self," adds Price. "What has Jack done to fit into London society? What version of Ernest does
Algernon adopt in the country? The possibilities are endless."
Reflecting the vision, Circa's 2023 production of "The Importance of Being Earnest" promises to be a colourful,
exhilarating celebration of identity, truth, and the joys of theatrical pretence.
Seats are filling up fast. To secure yours, book online at circa.co.nz or phone the box office at 04 801 7992.
Stay in the loop with updates and behind-the-scenes peeks via the Circa Theatre Website, Facebook, and Instagram.
Educators and group leaders can access an accessible Word doc version of the Theatre Education Pack on the Circa
Theatre’s website.
SHOW DETAILS
Season: 7 October – 4 November 2023
Preview: Friday 6 October 2023
Location: Circa One, Circa Theatre, Wellington
Timings: Tues – Thurs 6.30pm, Fri – Sat 8pm, Sun 4pm
Ticket Pricing: $30 – $55
Special Events: Post-show Q on Tuesday 10 October at 6.30pm; Choose Your Price tickets on Wednesday 11 October at 6.30pm.
CAST
John "Jack" Worthing, J.P.: Andrew Paterson
Algernon Moncrieff: Isobel Mackinnon
Gwendolen Fairfax: Ryan Carter
Cecily Cardew: Dawn Cheong
Lady Bracknell: Irene Wood
Miss Prism: Anne Chamberlain
Reverend Chasuble, D.D.: Peter Hambleton
ENDS
For further information, please contact nathan@toifactory.com