The Importance of Being Earnest

National Theatre Live - Vue Piccadilly

Every minute of this vibrant, colourful and energetic production of the Wilde classic, is a treat, from the comfort of your local cinema. Theatre and an ice blast!

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You didn't get the chance to see 'The Importance of Being Earnest' at The National Theatre? Fear not! The National Theatre Live are showing screenings in cinemas all over the country, so you can unlock the divine theatre experience of this captivating performance from a cinema near you!

Max Webster has directed a high energy production of the Oscar Wilde staple, classic play 'The Importance of Being Earnest'. With an all-star cast including stage star with 3 Olivier awards Sharon D Clarke and the recent Doctor, in the BBC's Doctor Who; Ncuti Gatwa. The way it is portrayed is a beautiful fusion of classical and modern. The plot follows Jack Worthing, the romantic, living two lives; in London he is called Earnest and lives the social life of a bachelors in the city with his close friend Algernon. Back in his home, in the country he is 'himself' Jack Worthing, with the responsibility of running his home and being guardian of young, impressionable Gwendolen Fairfax; providing her protection. The fast pace of the piece, comic-timing and enchanting design elements creates an extraordinary, addictive show. Oscar Wilde's writing in this production has been embellished with colour and character, which leaves the audience wanting more.

It's difficult to not be glued to your seat by the portrayal of the eccentric characters from the cast. Hugh Skinner plays Jack Worthing; he clearly shows the character's struggle of the pressures of society and how he has become tangled in his web of lies. The second life that he has crafted seems more enticing than his reality, his characterisation displays Worthing's desire for the luxuries of a social city life and how he is always dragged back to his truth. Skinner shows the character's frustration, fear of being caught, how vulnerable and lost Worthing feels as his true self. In contrast, Ncuti Gatwa plays his friend Algernon, and he clearly shows how addictive creating other identities can be. Gatwa's character is intoxicated and lusts for the danger of being tangled in a web of lies. However, his character has confidence and has less to lose from being caught, which is shown through Gatwa's relaxed and charming characterisation. He takes more time in what he does and shows his enjoyment of each dangerous situation; it gives him a high. Each character is as eccentric and intriguing as the next.

The setting shows the differing two worlds Worthing lives within. The first being Algernon's grand home; with a grand piano, high ceilings, expensive furniture and a butler to serve them drinks and food at the ring of a bell. When we move to his home in the country it is set in a beautiful, huge garden, with vibrant plants all around and within the manor there are even higher ceilings, bookcases filled with books and steps leading up to the many floors of the stately home. This along with the period style outfits show the classical tones of the story. The vibrant colours, opening and costumes at the end give a modern spin on the story. The element of hiding from the truth and the moments that hint at sexuality and identity are strong and thought provoking.

The story is so interesting and the creative elements, direction and acting give the show it's modern style, whilst still honouring the classical writing. The story line is important, because Worthing's lies were in the end the truth; it highlights a strong message about identity and how living in an oppressive society can make you hide away who you really are. Whilst Worthing's not hiding the truth of who he is, it is essentially a journey of finding who you truly are, but through a web of lies. It is also interesting how the female characters have the upper hand of the piece and they are the decision makers, the female power representation in this show is brilliant, whilst there is the undertones of their lack of freedom and the oppression of the time it is set. It's such an interesting, hilarious and thought-provoking show. It's one I would not miss!

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Get yourself down to the cinema to catch it, CLICK HERE to find your closest cinema that is screening the show.

National Theatre Live is such a fantastic way to access quality theatre closer to home, saving travel costs and time! More new theatre experiences for hungry minds. With the luxury of an interval. I've seen too many 3-hour films where I've been glued to my seat and wanting the chance to go to the loo without missing the action.