(Stanhope Productions Limited and Nica Burns)
Acclaimed director, Adrian Noble, has succeeded in
revitalising Oscar Wilde’s greatest play for a whole new generation, with his
inspired casting and direction. This new revival is eloquent and hilarious in
equal measure. The physicality of characters and script is ingenious, engaging
and energised on a level not seen before. Noble has manage to add so much more
content to the already superbly witty dialogue, for which Wilde was famous,
making this play look as if it has just been penned and as fresh and current as
any new writing appearing at The Royal Court.
It would be very easy to follow in the footsteps of previous
actors’ interpretation of such iconic roles afforded here, in The Importance of
Being Earnest, yet each performer presents a wonderfully original creation in
their respective parts. Philip Cumbus is imposing in both stature and
personality as the pesky playboy, Algernon Moncrieff, who meets his romantic
match in the unassuming guise of young, Cecily Cardew, brilliantly portrayed by
Imogen Doel. The courting between these two unique individuals is hysterical,
in all senses of the word. Similarly superb are Michael Benz as Jack Worthing
and Emily Barber, as his intended, Gwendolen Fairfax, whose farcical trials and
tribulations are exhausting to behold. The final adorable pairing is Richard
O’Callaghan, as the bumbling Reverend, with the legendary Michele Dotrice, who
gives the most delightful performance, as the nervous Miss Prism. The rest of
the supporting cast add perfectly to the troupe of slick professionals, not
forgetting to mention the striking presence of David Suchet in the part of Lady
Augusta Bracknell. Although not the first time a man has played this
intimidating matriarch, Suchet does it with incredible aplomb and panache. Commanding
the stage he delights and taunts with the most telling facial expressions and
smallest of physical gestures. In fact, the focus from every single cast
member, throughout the entire three acts, never falters. The only other things
to mention are Peter McKintosh’s charming set design and beautiful costumes.
This is the third time I’ve reviewed a production of The
Importance of Being Ernest and it is by far the best. The audience, in the
packed auditorium, were laughing and applauding, during the evening’s entertainment,
with as much gusto as the actors delivered the story on stage. Such a positive
reception is a great indicator to the producers that they have a sure fire hit
on their hands prior to its run in the West End. If you can get tickets, then
you must absolutely go and see this production. It is a masterclass in the art
of quality theatre.
5 stars!
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