THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST
- THE MUSICAL

A musical adaptation in two acts by John Sean O'Mahony of Oscar Wilde's The Importance of Being Earnest

Oscar Wilde's comedy has been adapted into a delightful musical with many enchanting songs and this period play, set in the 1890s, can be staged as simply or elaborately as desired.

Synopsis

The elegantly absurd plot centres on Jack Worthing, who is "Ernest" in town. He wins Gwendolen's hand, but she declares that she chiefly loves him for his name Ernest-the name Jack has allotted to his non-existent brother whose peccadilloes explain his frequent absences from his country home where lives his pretty ward Cecily. Another formidable impediment to Jack's happiness is Lady Bracknell, who shudders at Jack's having being found in a handbag at Victoria Station. Meanwhile, Cecily has decided to marry "Ernest". When Algernon presents himself in this guise, she immediately accepts his proposal. But she too will only marry an "Ernest". However, through some highly improbable coincidences, all is happily resolved.

The Cast: M5 F4. Extras

The Scenes

Act I

Outside Green Park, in the heart of London, 1895.
Lake's, one of London's most fashionable tailors.
The morning-room in Algernon's flat in Half Moon Street.
In the grounds of the Manor House, Woolton, Hertfordshire.
A secluded corner of the flower garden.
The trellis garden

Act II

The topiary garden.
The terrace at tea time.
The conservatory at the Manor House.
The library of the Manor House

The Music includes:

Bunburying
Borne in a Handbag
The Importance of Being Ernest

Orchestration

Trumpet, Woodwind, Synthesizer, Percussion, Double Bass, Piano