Directors: Tracey Riddell and Mark Stoddart
Gaslight Theatre, Cambridge
19 November – 2 December 2023
When we think of creative endeavours from the 1800s such as Constable’s paintings, Belleck’s pottery, Tchaikovsky’s compositions, and Austen’s novels they seem old-fashioned and quaint. However, Oscar Wilde’s “The Importance of Being Earnest” does not fit within that broad generalisation due to his humorous observations of society that still resonate over a century later.
The play is a farcical comedy in which all nine characters have the opportunity to deliver some of the wittiest lines ever written. Lady Bracknell's memorable lines include “To lose one parent, Mr. Worthing may be regarded as a misfortune; to lose both looks like carelessness” and “To speak frankly, I am not in favour of long engagements. They give people the opportunity of finding out each other’s character before marriage, which I think is never advisable.” There is also Gwendolen’s delightful line “I never travel without my diary. One should always have something sensational to read in the train.” If you are unfamiliar with The Importance of Being Earnest, these are just three examples of the repartee in this comedy currently enjoying a two-week season at Cambridge’s darling little Gaslight Theatre.
Directors Tracey Riddell and Mark Stoddart’s production was well-paced and brilliantly cast. From the pre-show announcement to the music choices and eventually the curtain call, the audience was enraptured. The entrances and exits were well-timed, the costumes were sumptuous, and the bell pull was a triumph. Riddell and Stoddart’s decisions throughout were wonderful.
The lead roles of Algernon and Jack include extensive dialogue however Wilde’s construction of the play and storyline lends itself to easy recall as it bobs along from one witty one-liner to the next. Jared Wooldridge as Algernon “Algie” Moncrieff was sublime. Wooldridge perfectly embodied lackadaisical Algie and brought a very composed, steady demeanour to the character. Alexander Norris played Jack Worthing and as the absurdity ramped up so too did Norris’ hilarious execution of the role.
As Lady Bracknell, Sara Young delivered a faultless performance. Stef Gibson-Muir (Gwendolen Fairfax) was charismatic and engaging. Janine Swainson (Miss Prism) and Catherine Wilde (Cecily Cardew) shared some beautiful moments in Act Two. Nigel Slaughter (Dr. Chasuble) got to benefit from Swainson’s impeccable portrayal of Prism. Their entertaining dalliances that continued when seated stage right were priceless. David Lumsden (Merriman) and Liam Dobson (Lane) rounded out this accomplished cast. Each brought a real sense of fun to their characters.
The Importance of Being Earnest is a genuine example of a laugh a minute. A ticket to the show also supports Gaslight’s fundraising initiatives which is another reason to get behind this charming production.
Note: Wilde passed away in France on 30 November 1900. During my last check, there were still tickets available for that date exactly 123 years later. Do with that information what you will (do it).
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