This is a modern take on a classic from Oscar Wild, it's called The Importance Of Being Earnest, Which has been brought up to date for the 21st Century with a musical take on it, with modern hit songs that everyone recognises. This musical/play has a modest run time of over 2hrs, with a finish time of 10.10pm. Which I think its the latest I've ever been out of this glorious theatre!
The cast are strong, talented bunch, which portrays comedy elements perfectly, it has a rising damp feel with the main actor really reminding me of that character in the show, with his mannerisms and his comedy timing which is absolutely brilliant when a bit of the set, decides that its had "enough"... and the comedy take on it is brilliant, it did leave the audience wondering if it was supposed to happen or not.
I do think, the songs they've chosen could be different and didn't always work - however the take on RAYES "Where The Hell Is My husband" was hilarious, with a strong performance along with Butler saying the very famous line "Your husband is coming".
It is certainly worth watching whilst it is on tour, or if you can at the Everyman Cheltenham this week. I do have to agree with some of the audience members, it is slightly too long in length and could have been shortened by about 15 minutes, But don't let that put you off; it was a great production with some great talent.
If you are wondering what this take on the production is, then read below
Featuring a talented cast of actor-musicians, a live on-stage band seamlessly threads jazz-styled contemporary chart hits (think RAYE, Madonna, Lizzo and Eminem) through Wilde’s hilarious, razor-sharp dialogue.
Join Jack, Algy, Gwendolen and Cecily as engagements multiply, handbags are examined and a single name turns society upside-down. This Earnest is witty, romantic and gloriously playful.
In this vibrant 1920s setting, the female characters take the centre stage. Powered by agency and confidence, they are brought to life with refreshing strength. The traditional dynamics of the text shift delightfully, with relationships pioneered as much by female courtship as male.
In the spirit of Wilde’s own description, it is a production "exquisitely trivial, searchingly serious," delivered here with enormous wit, playfulness, and heart.
Combining drama, live music, and fabulous choreography, this is a brilliant hybrid of theatre that makes for a perfect summer evening.
The cast:
Algernon Moncrieff CHARLIE CLEE
Lane, Butler LACHLAN MCCALL
John Worthing, J. P. LYLE FULTON
Lady Augusta Bracknell ANNA MACLEOD FRANKLIN
Hon. Gwendolen Fairfax GRACE BASSETT
Plays at the Everyman Theatre Cheltenham until Saturday 12th September 2026 Tickets: https://www.everymantheatre.org.uk/shows/the-importance-of-being-earnest/#tickets
Matinees Thursday and Saturday 2pm. Evenings Wed-Sat at 7.30pm.
As always, thanks to Encore PR for the invite, Everyman Theatre Cheltenham for being so welcoming!
