Production still for "The Importance of Being Earnest". L-R: Jonathan Haynes, David Woods. Photographer: Pia Johnson
The Importance of Being Earnest (2020)
By Jonathan Haynes, David Woods & Judy Kelly
14 February 2020 – 08 March 2020 Merlyn Theatre
Adapted from Oscar Wilde
Malthouse Theatre, Ridiculusmus ,
Classic Theatre Collaboration Remount
In Oscar Wilde’s most famous comedy of lies, Jack and Algy thrive in double lives (as Ernest) to find the lover they desire (in earnest).
When questions of family heritage threaten their romantic desires, the gents question whether style really trumps sincerity.
Here, two multi-award-winning daredevils—David Woods and Jon Haynes—gleefully act out every role, tumbling chaotically through impossible costume changes. The beating heart of Wilde’s humanity exposes itself between these ludicrous theatrics.
In 2006, when Woods and Haynes first brought this production to Melbourne, Malthouse Theatre audiences fell out of their seats in laughter. Now, the Ridiculusmus team triumphantly return to double down on the hilarious dishonesty.
— Thuy On, Arts Hub
Cast
Devisor, Adaptor, Actor
Devisor, Adaptor, Actor
Creatives
Playwright
Costume Designer, Set Designer
Lighting Designer
Assistant Stage Manager
Director, Devisor, Adaptor
Lighting Designer
Sound Designer
Stage Manager
Producer, Co-Producer
Acknowledgements
Malthouse Theatre presents the Ridiculusmus production of The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde.