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David Leonard's directorial debut, alliteration aside, is a marvellous
evocation of late Victorian England and the dandier side of life,
where the weight of the world is forgotten in place of sunshine
and hedonism.
As with much of Wilde's work, the plot of 'The Importance of Being
Earnest' is a mere undercurrent to the rich veneer of the language
- every phrase witticism or quote destined for many a dinner party.
Like Wilde's greatest creation, Lord Henry Wotton, the characters
in this superb play take turns in expounding social eloquencies
and frequent bon mots, all of which combine to form the perfect
Dandy Manifesto.
To truly do Wilde justice one needs to capture the essence of both
character and persona, and Leonard and his cast succeed with great
aplomb.
Superb performances intermingle with the excellent set, taking
us away from the hum-drum and tawdry, and casting us off to a land
just above reality - even the watering can sprinkles silver dust.
To take on a play such as this one is always competing against
reputation and the fame of certain sections of dialogue. This production
revels in highlightng the new, whilst paying subtle deference to
those lines we all long to hear.
The marvellous Kate Brown, in the role of Lady Bracknell, casts
off the hyperbolic shroud of Edith Evans et al, and delivers a beautifully
understated yet scintillating performance, reducing 'a handbag'
- the show's most well-documented and imitated line - to the very
epitome of restrained disgust.
There is no need for pantomime antics here - the mere mastery of
the production and surroundings gives us all the hedonism we need.
I'm sure there were a few who would chastise Mr Leonard for the
length of the first half, producing a massive disparity in length
before and after the interval, but in my mind, and in the minds
of Wilde purists, what more could he do?
A thoroughly enjoyable and often enchanting evening's entertainment,
subtlety and frivolity combining with humour and love to create
the perfect spectacle.
Cheers to you, Henry
Performance
details
Dates: 26 August - 17 September 2005
Tickets:
£8.50 to £18.00, with tickets for U-25s and Students
at £3.50.
Box Office: 01904 623568.
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