Not Wilde about this rather bland affair
The Importance of Being Earnest, Loft Theatre, Leamington, until May 6
We should really be focusing here on the importance of being Oscar.
The bottom line of David Fletcher’s production is its general feeling of competence rather than subtlety. Thus the opening salvos between the two young male protagonists become somewhat tedious without finding the real eloquence of the dialogue.
Things take a distinct turn for the better at the start of the second act with the arrival of Mark Crossley’s Canon Chasuble and Elspeth Dales’s Miss Prism, a duly delivered double act of delightful dithering. Their appearances constantly steal the scene, reminding us of the play’s true comedic texture.
There is also eye-catching work from newcomer Bella Stock who attractively captures the impetuous single-mindedness of the young Cecily as she experiences an awakening of her own sexuality.
Some gems, then, give a certain degree of sparkle to a production which is otherwise rather bland.
Photos by Richard Smith. www.richardsmith-photography.co.uk