When you see a cast list inclusive of Stephen Fry and the players of The Importance of Being Earnest, you know you are in safe hands. This production brings joy, silliness and exquisite delivery of an old classic. The witty puns and charm don’t disappoint, and the extravagance of the set and costumes throws you into high society elegance. This Oscar Wilde play first performed in 1895, is the last of his drawing room plays. It centres around two young men about town who in their mission to avoid their life of obligation and responsibility both take on the persona of ‘Earnest’, to gain the affections of two eligible young women. “Living a double live has its drawbacks” and amongst the mayhem this revised rendition brings sparkle and nonsense to the stage like you have never seen before.
From the opening scene of ‘Pink’ cabaret, Olly Alexander sits at the piano grinning introducing the scene which gives you a sense of Oscar Wilde, right from the start you can feel what is to come. In his role as Algenon Moncrieff his repartee with Jack Worthing Nathan Stewart-Jarrett bounces back and forth in rhythm that is comfortable and in keeping with Wilde’s satirical style. Their relationship flourishes on stage as their ‘bromance’ develops during long scenes of casual dialogue. Olly and Nathan transition through scene changes with ease and as if they have always known each other.
This is a long play made to feel short, quirky and not too serious. It could be shortened, but too enjoyable to see how.
In enters the formidable Lady Bracknell Stephen Fry, such a joy to see him on stage in his finery depicting the mature lady of parodies. Strong performance by Fry who nobly portrays the Lady in the only way he could, with ease and poise. Familiar faces of Miss Prism the particular governess Shobna Gulati and the Reverend Canon Chasuble Hugh Dennis brings nostalgic prowess and sense to the nonsense of the story lines. There are some real ‘laugh out loud’ moments. The waiter Merriman played by the talented Hayley Carmichael comes bumbling in, the entrances and exits, you can tell the fun is real. The classic monologues delivered with studious wit as you would expect from Fry and Dennis.
Rae Smith’s set and costumes balance authenticity with t ostentatious town houses and wild country residences. Spectacular to see and what you would expect in period drama.
Webster appears to know his audience taking this play and creating something quite attractive for modern audiences. The lighting was bright which meant you could see … often plays are set within dark spaces and this was a real bonus. Unsure of the brightly coloured flower power wings at the end, but who cares it was silly and such fun.
The Importance of Being Earnest is vibrant, quintessentially British with a touch of devilish humour and satire. A great cast a great play.
Written by Oscar Wilde
Directed Max Webster
Set & Costume Design Rae Smith
Lighting Designer John Clark
Sound Design Nicola T. Chang
This show commences at 7.00pm approx. 2hrs 45 mins with a 20 minute interval
Playing 18th September 2025 – 10th January 2026
Booking Link https://wwwnationaltheatre.org.uk/productions/the-importance-of-being-earnest/
Reviewer: Michelle Knight
Reviewed: 1st October 2025
North West End UK Rating: