book and lyrics by Anne Croswell
music by Lee Pockriss
directed by Charlotte Moore
December 12, 2009 – February 14, 2010
This wicked adaptation of Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest features all of its beloved characters – Lady Bracknell and the creme de la creme of London society singing and dancing to the brilliant dialogue of this comic masterpiece. The wonderful music and lyrics faithfully re-create a time when wit and grace ruled the world absolutely and the right address and proper behavior was paramount except when it came time to pay your creditors!
The lush period costumes and clever score are the perfect complement to Oscar Wilde’s incomparable wordplay and sharp witticisms. “DELIGHTFUL…This small gem retains the Wilde story of jumbled identities and thwarted romances but somehow manages to squeeze in a batch of songs. Two, as rendered here, are showstoppers: “A Handbag Is Not a Proper Mother,” delivered by Jack (Noah Racey) and Lady Bracknell (Beth Fowler), and “A Wicked Man,” SMASHINGLY TURNED by Katie Fabel as Cecily. AN ENJOYABLE AND FAST-MOVING TWO AND A QUARTER HOURS” – The New York Times
“THIS FAITHFUL ADAPTATION RETAINS MOST OF WILDE’S ORIGINAL WORDPLAY WHILE ADDING SEVERAL CLEVER AND PLAYFUL SONGS. The Irish Repertory Theatre’s classy and intimate production succeeds as both classical and musical theater. As directed by Charlotte Moore, THE STRONG CAST HANDLES BOTH THE SONGS AND TEXT WITH COMIC PERFECTION” – AM NY
“DOES THE MASTER PROUD” – Associated Press
“AN ENGAGING VARIATION ON A CLASSIC” – NY Post
“Director Charlotte Moore and her company are deft not only in delivering Wilde’s stinging critique of Victorian morals and social posturing SHINES TO HYSTERICAL EFFECT but also in bringing Pockriss and Croswell’s songs to life WITH GRACE AND EQUALLY FUNNY APLOMB. Racey is a delight as Jack. He captures not only the character’s impetuousness, but also his somewhat goofy air, with ease. Additionally as he executes Barry McNabb’s choreography, RACEY ONCE AGAIN PROVES HIMSELF TO BE A WORTHY AND CHARMING HEIR TO THE LEGACY OF FRED ASTAIRE.” -Theatremania