Bristol, Tennessee/Virginia, July 2017 — Theatre Bristol is proud to present an Oscar Wilde comedy classic, “The Importance of Being Earnest,” produced by the Theatre Bristol Youth Service Board, July 28, 29, and 30 at the Theatre Bristol ARTspace.
“The Importance of Being Earnest” begins in the flat of wealthy Algernon Moncrieff (Seth Gilstrap) in London’s fashionable West End. Algernon’s aunt, Lady Bracknell (Anna Kimerer), and her daughter, Gwendolen Fairfax (Camille Gray), are coming for a visit, but Mr. Jack Worthing (Jace Lyon), known to Algernon as Ernest, arrives first.
When Jack explains that he plans to propose marriage to Gwendolen, Algernon offers up Jack’s lost cigarette case, demanding to know why the case has the inscription, “From little Cecily with her fondest love,” before giving his approval of the engagement. Jack explains that his real name is Jack Worthing in the country, but he assumes the name “Ernest” when he ventures to the city for fun, and that Cecily is his ward.
While devouring all the cucumber sandwiches, Algernon confesses that he, too, employs deception when it is convenient.
The scene shifts to Jack Worthing’s country estate where Miss Prism (Cameron Roberts), Cecily Cardew’s (Emma Kennedy) governess, is teaching Cecily in the garden. Miss Prism sings Jack’s praises as a sensible and responsible man, unlike his brother Ernest, who is wicked and has a weak character.
The local vicar, Canon Chasuble (Luke Gray), arrives and, sensing an opportunity for romance, takes Miss Prism for a walk in the garden.
In conversation, Gwendolyn and Cecily discover they are both engaged to Ernest Worthing. A battle follows, cleverly carried out during the British tea ceremony.
Supported by Morgan Whitaker as Mrs. Lane and Whitney Brooks as Mrs. Merriman, and Dakota Otey and Devon White on lights and sound, “The Importance of Being Earnest” is clever and packed with fast-paced and comedic dialogue that will leave you rolling in the aisles.
“The Importance of Being Earnest” is directed and managed by Theatre Bristol Youth Service Board members ages 13 to 22. After the successes of their previous productions, “Pygmalion” and “Love’s Labour’s Lost,” the YSB is excited to have the opportunity to present this classic play. With the help of their mentors Samantha Gray and Steve Baskett, they have put together a truly entertaining comedy.
“The Importance of Being Earnest” runs July 28-30, 2017, with evening performances on Friday and Saturday at 7:30 and matinees Saturday and Sunday at 2:30. Please call 423-212-3625 for reservations or reserve them online at TheatreBristol.org.
Founded in 1965, Theatre Bristol is the oldest continually running children’s theatre in northeast Tennessee and is now celebrating its 52nd season. Its performances take place in the ARTspace, a multi-purpose, black box theatre as well as the Paramount Center for the Arts. Theatre Bristol is entirely volunteer run and we invite you to get involved.
For more information, visit the Theatre Bristol’s website. www.TheatreBristol.org or Facebook page, contact Theatre Bristol at 423-212-3625, or email info@theatrebristol.org.