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The Importance of Being Ernest

Writer's picture: Lytton PlayersLytton Players


The Importance of Being Earnest

By Oscar Wilde

Production Dates: Tuesday 10th - Saturday 14th June 2025


Director: Richelle Pitt-Chambers

Producer: Alice Smithson

A timeless comedy of manners, The Importance of Being Earnest is a satirical exploration of Victorian society’s preoccupation with appearances and social expectations. Jack Worthing and Algernon Moncrieff lead double lives to escape societal constraints, but their deception leads to mistaken identities, romantic entanglements, and hilariously witty misunderstandings. Oscar Wilde's sharp wit and clever dialogue make this one of the most beloved comedies of all time.

Character Descriptions:

  • John (Jack) Worthing – Male, 20s–30s. A seemingly responsible and respectable young gentleman, Jack leads a double life as “Ernest” to enjoy freedom in the city. Earnest and sincere but prone to melodramatic outbursts.

  • Algernon Moncrieff – Male, 20s–30s. Charming, witty, and unapologetically indulgent, Algernon is Jack’s best friend and partner in deception. A master of quips and sharp observations.

  • Gwendolen Fairfax – Female, 20s–30s. Elegant, confident, and articulate, Gwendolen is a woman of strong opinions, particularly about the name “Ernest.” She is Algernon’s cousin and Jack’s love interest.

  • Cecily Cardew – Female, late teens–20s. Sweet, imaginative, and whimsical, Cecily is Jack’s ward. Fascinated by the idea of rebellion and romance, she becomes smitten with the idea of “Ernest.”

  • Lady Bracknell – Female, 40s–60s. The epitome of Victorian propriety and social ambition, Lady Bracknell is imposing, imperious, and delivers some of Wilde’s most famous lines with a cutting edge.

  • Miss Prism – Female, 40s–60s. Cecily’s governess, a purveyor of moral instruction with a mysterious past. Prim but susceptible to romantic notions.

  • Rev. Canon Chasuble – Male, 40s–60s. The local rector, dignified and sincere with a subtle sense of humor. He harbors a quiet affection for Miss Prism.

  • Lane/Merriman – Male or Female, any age. Algernon and Jack’s respective servants, Lane and Merriman provide dry humor and subtly comment on their employers’ antics.


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The Stevenage Lytton Theatre, The Sishes, Vardon Road, Stevenage, Herts, SG1 5PZ


Box Office: 01438 357407


info@lyttonplayers.co.uk

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We rehearse weeknights from 7:45pm to 10pm and our show times vary.

Charity Number: 1200488

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