The Importance of Being Earnest
Ridiculusmus
20-22nd September

On a stage crowded with Victoriana and modern props such as a midi system and electric kettles, the drama opens with one of the actors playing a piano.but that is the only sane bit in an evening of fun and witty dialogue.

Two actors play all the characters, mostly in a deadpan format with occasional skipping and romping, as the audience is taken on an exhilarating carriage ride through Oscar Wilde's comedy of Bunburyisms and mysterious finds at railway station.

David Woods and Jon Haynes are serious and hilarious and use their many devices bring this play to life with walk-in wardrobes, fold out screens and hand puppets combined with quick changes both on and off stage. The actors never lose their cool, which is a bit disconcerting as you felt slightly impolite to laugh. I was pleased to see they did not resort to the Dame Edith Evans style delivery of Lady Bracknell's immortal line 'A handbag!! ' which many try but few successfully achieve.

The set and costumes are great but a big part of bringing the show off is due to the excellent sound and lighting. I even loved the design of the programme with its understated elegance quite in keeping with the production.

This is a tremendously innovative production which I thoroughly recommend for a cracking night out so watch out for them arriving in your area as they are touring the country. It is a real treat for all ages