Director Alistair Newton leads Grand Theatre production running through April 12
By Zoe Kallenekos
Londoners looking for a laugh are in luck — The Importance of Being Earnest begins previews Tuesday, March 24 at 7:30 p.m. The comedic play, which originally opened in 1895, centres on two friends leading double lives.
An original character will appear by the name of Lady Stella Clinton, based on a real trailblazing figure challenging gender norms in the Victorian era. The role delivers a pair of musical numbers newly added to the show, written by Victorian era playwright-composer duo Gilbert and Sullivan. The show’s director, Alistair Newton, has also written added text for the production, titled “On the Language of Fans.”
Throughout the show’s run, audiences can attend post-show discussions every Wednesday with cast and crew members. There will be a Queer Community Night event on April 1, while attendees at the April 8 matinee can sit in on a pre-show conversation with drag artists to learn about the history of drag fashion and its impacts today.
A few showtimes will provide additional accessibility components to those with differing financial and ability-based needs. On Sunday, March 29 tickets will be offered on a pay-what-you-can basis. Saturday, April 4’s matinee will be open captioned, displaying subtitles for all audience members.
Tickets are available on Grand Theatre’s website as well as at the in-person box office an hour before showtime. Discounted previews run through March 26, with opening night scheduled for 8 p.m. March 27.