The Importance of Being Earnest

The Importance of Being Earnest is a great favourite for amateur groups as it has something for everyone; romance, mystery, farce, comedy written with wit and provides the actors with the challenge of performing precise dialogue. This was a great choice of play for Hazel Bonnin, a first time Director.  The two male leads John (Jack) and Algernon both pretend to be named Earnest in order to win the affections of Gwendolen and Cecily. Throw in a manservant, a butler, a canon, a prim governess and a formidable aunt and you have the ingredients for an evening of classic entertainment.

The sets were handsome and tastefully furnished in keeping with the period as were the props which were well used by the cast. The garden set was gorgeous and exquisitely painted.

The costumes were striking and of the highest quality and well fitted.  A great deal of thought had gone into the relevant hair and make up for the period. The lighting was effective and well controlled. Great sound effects when Jack was looking “upstairs” for the handbag.

There was much to savour in this highly entertaining production. The talent and enthusiasm of the performers was evident. There were superb performances from every one of the solid and reliable cast from the dry delivery of Paul Cuttle as the manservant Lane to Ros Shepherd’s prim and slightly flustered Miss Prism. Lauren Henney deserves a special mention as she brought a freshness and liveliness to the role of Cecily, the youngest character, as does Antonia Demetriadi as Lady Bracknell for not over-egging the phrase “A handbag”.

It has been claimed that this is the perfect comedy. Hook Players’ production – while not perfect – provided an enjoyable evening of entertainment under the guidance of first time director, Hazel Bonnin. 

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