Importance of Being Earnest, The

One-Acts 45

By: Tracy Wells
Cast: 4 M, 4 F, 3 flexible (With doubling: 4 M, 4 F, 2 flexible)
Performance Time: Approximately 60 minutes, 55 pgs

CLASSIC. This 60-minute adaptation of Oscar Wilde’s uproarious play is easy to stage and perfect for young actors. Jack has fallen in love with Gwendolen, the cousin of his best friend, Algernon. Meanwhile, Algernon has plans to woo Cecily, Jack’s young ward. The only problem is that both women will only love a man named “Ernest.” To win Cecily’s hand in marriage, Algernon poses as Jack’s brother, Ernest. But when Algernon arrives at Jack’s estate, he discovers to his dismay that Ernest has recently “died.” In the meantime, Jack has made plans to be christened with the name “Ernest” at 5:30 p.m. not knowing Algernon has also made arrangements to be christened “Ernest” the same day. In the end, Algernon and Jack realize the importance of being earnest!

Freeviews: To read play excerpts click here.

About the Story: To read more about the story click here.

Tracy Wells is an accomplished playwright who has published several plays for children and adults. Mrs. Wells has been involved in theatre for many years in acting and in production. She and her husband, Eric, reside in metro Detroit with their son and daughter.