The National Theatre in London has announced a new revival of Oscar Wilde’s timeless comedy The Importance of Being Earnest, set to run from November 2024 to January 2025. The production will be directed by Max Webster, making his National Theatre debut, and will feature an impressive cast led by Doctor Who and Sex Education star Ncuti Gatwa.
Joining Gatwa in the production are acclaimed actors Sharon D Clarke (Caroline, or Change) as Lady Bracknell, Hugh Skinner (W1A, Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again) as Jack Worthing, and Amanda Lawrence (Star Wars: Episode – IX The Rise of Skywalker, Angels in America) as Miss Prism. The cast is rounded out by Richard Cant (Stan & Ollie, Mary Queen of Scots) as Reverend Canon Chasuble.
In this reimagined take on Wilde’s classic comedy of manners, the story follows the antics of two young gentlemen, Jack and Algernon, as they navigate a web of lies and deception in pursuit of love. Directed by Max Webster, the production promises to bring a fresh and flamboyant perspective to this beloved play.
“It is a joy to be welcoming Max Webster in his National Theatre directorial debut with a new production of Oscar Wilde’s hilariously subversive comedy The Importance of Being Earnest,” said Rufus Norris, Director of the National Theatre. “Max has assembled an extraordinary cast to reimagine one of our greatest comedies, with Ncuti Gatwa making his National Theatre debut.”
The Importance of Being Earnest will join the previously announced Ballet Shoes at the National Theatre for the festive season, running in the Lyttelton theatre from 20 November 2024 to 25 January 2025. Tickets are on sale to the public from Thursday 23 May, via the National Theatre’s website.
