One of the cleverest comedies by one of the greatest writers in the English language, THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST introduces us to Jack and Algernon, two charming bachelors who are each living a double life, aided by a fictional alter ego called “Ernest.” But when they fall truly in love with a pair of proper young women, will they be able to bring an end to the charade and convince the formidable Lady Bracknell that they are suitable candidates for marriage? After all, “the one charm about marriage is that it makes a life of deception absolutely necessary for both parties.”
Artistic Director Michael Halberstam brings his talent for refreshing the classics to this effervescent comedy of manners. Filled with Wilde’s sparkling wit, piercing social satire and trademark wordplay, this well-loved classic is certain to delight this holiday season!
Showtimes
Evenings Tuesdays – Saturdays 7:30pm select Sundays at 6pm
Matinees Saturdays 3pm select Sundays at 2pm select Wednesdays at 3pm
This is a reserved seat venue. Doors to the performance space will open approximately 30 minutes prior to the beginning of the performance.
There is no late seating or readmittance.
For performances listed as “Sold Out,” contact the Box Office for more information about our standby and wait list options as well as for assistance locating currently available dates and times.
“Earnest and elegant! [For] a classy Christmas outing with the family…this production will serve you well.” Chicago Tribune
“A classy paragon of comedy style and sophistication. Wilde’s wry wordplay is wonderful!” Daily Herald
“The casting here is impeccable, the delivery is crisp and the principal actors play off one another with an often silly abandon that makes for a fun evening at the theatre!” Newcity Stage
“One of the most daring and socially significant comedies ever penned in the English language.” Chicago Tribune
Sunday, December 3, 2017 after the matinee performance
Are you curious about the world that surrounds your favorite plays? Our Sunday Spotlight series offers you access to the finest speakers, scholars and cultural leaders. Tracy C. Davis, Ethel M. Barber Professor of Performing Arts at Northwestern University and a specialist in 19th century British theatre history, will talk with Director of New Work & Dramaturgy Bobby Kennedy about the significance and legacy of Oscar Wilde’s plays.
The Making of... The Importance of Being Earnest
Monday, December 11, 2017 at 6:30pm
Ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes? The Making of... series offers you an insider view of what goes into creating each production at WT. Costume Designer Mara Blumenfeld will talk about the inspiration behind the clothes worn by the cast of Earnest and in what ways they are and are not faithful to the 1890s.
Post-Show Conversation: The Word
Join us after every Tuesday evening performance (excluding First Week and any extension weeks) for a 15-minute discussion of the play, facilitated by a member of the WT Artistic Team.
Post-Show Conversation: The Artist
Join us after every Wednesday evening performance (excluding First Week and any extension weeks) for a 15-minute talk-back featuring actors from the production, facilitated by a member of the WT Artistic Team.
Pre-Show Conversation: Up Close
Join us at 6:45pm before every Thursday evening performance (excluding First Week and any extension weeks) for a 15-minute primer on the context and content of the play, facilitated by a member of the WT Artistic Team.
THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST First Rehearsal
THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST First Rehearsal
(Showing 9 of 25)
THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST
THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST
(Showing 9 of 26)
THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST - Cast Interviews
+ The cast of THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST at Writers Theatre discusses the complexity of comedy, the significance of a diverse company and the "emotional truth" at the center of Oscar Wilde's masterpiece. (3:09)