The importance of Being Earnest
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by Oscar Wilde
adapted and directed by Adam Nichols
presented by OVO
“The truth is rarely pure and never simple...”
Especially when everyone’s pretending to be Ernest.
OVO reimagines Oscar Wilde’s classic with a sparkling 1920s twist: fizzing physical comedy, art-deco design and a live jazz soundtrack.
This musical adaptation whips up a stylish world of cucumber sandwiches, scandal and mistaken identity, whilst a live band threads re-scored contemporary chart hits (including Lizzo, Eminem, Katy Perry, Lady Gaga, Lionel Richie and Queen) through Wilde’s effervescent dialogue.
“A crowd-pleasing, entertaining update.” The Stage
Join Jack, Algy, Gwendolen and Cecily as engagements multiply, handbags are examined and a single name turns society upside-down. This Earnest is witty, romantic and gloriously playful.
“This production races around with frantic energy. The aim to amuse is hit with abundant energy and gusto.” Everything Theatre
OVO makes its sixth appearance at the Minack, following rapturously received productions of A Midsummer Night’s Dream (2025), The Threepenny Opera (2023), The Winter’s Tale (2021), Much Ado About Nothing (2018) and the Minack trophy winning As You Like It (2016).
“An exquisitely entertaining production.” The Upcoming
“Brings new life to a classic - comedy at its absolute best.” Herts Advertiser
adapted and directed by Adam Nichols
presented by OVO
“The truth is rarely pure and never simple...”
Especially when everyone’s pretending to be Ernest.
OVO reimagines Oscar Wilde’s classic with a sparkling 1920s twist: fizzing physical comedy, art-deco design and a live jazz soundtrack.
This musical adaptation whips up a stylish world of cucumber sandwiches, scandal and mistaken identity, whilst a live band threads re-scored contemporary chart hits (including Lizzo, Eminem, Katy Perry, Lady Gaga, Lionel Richie and Queen) through Wilde’s effervescent dialogue.
“A crowd-pleasing, entertaining update.” The Stage
Join Jack, Algy, Gwendolen and Cecily as engagements multiply, handbags are examined and a single name turns society upside-down. This Earnest is witty, romantic and gloriously playful.
“This production races around with frantic energy. The aim to amuse is hit with abundant energy and gusto.” Everything Theatre
OVO makes its sixth appearance at the Minack, following rapturously received productions of A Midsummer Night’s Dream (2025), The Threepenny Opera (2023), The Winter’s Tale (2021), Much Ado About Nothing (2018) and the Minack trophy winning As You Like It (2016).
“An exquisitely entertaining production.” The Upcoming
“Brings new life to a classic - comedy at its absolute best.” Herts Advertiser
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Where is it happening?
Minack Theatre, Porthcurno, Penzance, Cornwall, TR19 6JU Porthcurno, United Kingdom
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
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Host or PublisherThe Minack Theatre
