The Importance of Being Earnest – A New Musical

By Robert Iles - 17th Dec 2011

Oscar Wilde's The Importance of Being Earnest, one of the greatest comedies in the English language, has been transformed into a hilarious, toe-tapping musical! Hmmm, a musical it is. Hilarious, at times.Toe tapping it is not.

There are some charming tunes in this reworking of Wilde’s masterpiece of manners, but it never really takes off. The book/script has been masterly crafted down to two hours, including songs, without losing the story or the brilliant wit of Wilde. The stars of the evening are, without question, Susie Blake (Prism) and Edward Petherbridge (Chasuble) as the dotty and forlorn would-be-lovers. Their duet at the top act two is, and would be, a showstopper in any production. Gyles Brandreth gives a low-energy misjudged ‘performance’ in the iconic role of Lady Bracknell; never capturing the steel and bombast; merely gliding through the play in an energy-defusing prosaic parody.

The rest of the company shine in the absence of Bracknell and work well as an ensemble, with some natty song lyrics and well-judged performances. Flora Spencer-Longhurst gives a studied and delightful performance as Cecily Cardew with her tongue placed firmly in her cheek.

Overall, this musical version is a welcome light entertainment that will do well as an alternative family festive treat.