The Importance of Being Earnest review

After seeing director Max Webster's take on Macbeth at the Donmar Warehouse, I felt I could not pass up the opportunity to see his next project: a take on Oscar Wilde's The Importance of Being Earnest. The combination of an impeccably chosen (and star studded) casting of Ncuti Gatwa, Hugh Skinner et al. Nothing, it seemed, could prevent me from disliking what was sure to be a near perfect production?

This staging was a truly faithful interpretation of the source material, while making everything bigger, bolder, and incredibly camp. The performances were often great all round, with an overblown, semi-ironic style which although humorous can become played out, and would feel more at home in an amateur production. I was pleasantly surprised by how additive the moments of music were (composer DJ Walde) that recontextualised well known classical works with hip-hop sensibilities. As always, the sets of National Theatre productions (set and costume designer Rae Smith) never fail to disappoint.

Humour is so personal, I certainly have a bias towards tragedy over comedy. There were moments that I found hilarious, but for the most part the comedic aspects just did not resonate with me. I am not entirely sure that I really "get" this brand of "quintessentially British humour" and for that I can only apologise (sorry Oscar).

I supposed it would be argued that a play such as The Importance of Being Earnest would be considered "part of the cannon" but I truly question the relevance of putting on a production such as this in the present day. My fellow audience members had a great time, but it feels to me so of its time, so antiquated - that even what is undeniably a masterful modernisation just cannot compete with the current landscape of incredible theatre. I am sure so many will see this play and love it, but I am afraid it just was not for me. ★★★☆☆

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