“The Importance of Being Earnest”

In early February, I auditioned for Oscar Wilde’s hilarious play, “The Importance of Being Earnest” and I was offered the lead role of Jack Worthing (a.k.a Ernest). This romantic comedy is full of extremely witty dialogue as it satirizes the English aristocracy in 1890s London. The story centers around two proper gentlemen (Jack and Algernon) who use the same pseudonym (Ernest) to escape social obligations by pretending to be someone they’re not. 

 

My character, Jack Worthing, pretends to have a younger brother named Ernest who constantly gets into trouble, giving Jack the excuse to leave his country estate and enjoy the pleasures of London while using a fake  identity. During his visits to town, he meets and falls in love with Gwendolyn, who informs him she has always dreamed of marrying someone named Ernest. When Jack’s secret is discovered by his friend Algernon, a series of hilarious events ensues.

 

My involvement in this play has been so much fun for me. It has also been a challenge as I’ve had to memorize many pages of dialogue and tried to perfect my English accent. We had our final dress rehearsal last night and I’m pleased to say that the show is going to be highly entertaining.

 
We only have five performances from April 25 to April 30 on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 7:00 p.m. at 685 North Center Street in Lehi. Tickets are $7 and can be purchased at http://www.lehiarts.com/Buy-It-Here.html.

 

Below are some photos taken during one of our first dress rehearsals. Costumes have been improved since these photos were taken. 

Jack learns that Gwendolyn has always dreamed of loving someone named Ernest -- and she detests the name Jack.

 

Algernon tries to reconcile with his friend Jack.

 

Jack Worthing is in mourning due to the “death” of his fake brother Ernest.

 

Jack and Algernon discuss the tricky situation they’ve gotten themselves into.

Jack is overjoyed when he learns more about his mysterious origins.

 

Jack finally discovers his true identity.

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