A Trivial Comedy for Serious People

National Theatre Live 2025 brings The Importance of Being Earnest like never before, directed by Max Webster (Donmar’s Macbeth; Life of Pi), to the Torch Theatre screen on Saturday 22 February. Three-time Olivier Award-winner Sharon D Clarke is joined by Ncuti Gatwa (Doctor Who, Sex Education) in this joyful reimagining of Oscar Wilde’s most celebrated comedy.

This hilarious story of identity, impersonation and romance, filmed live from the National Theatre in London, will appeal to everyone who likes Holby City, Notting Hill, Mamma Mia and Macbeth – what a combination and what appeal! Fans of Oscar Wilde’s witty, expressive writings and plays, as well as fans of classic literature will enjoy this night of comedy, with satire thrown in.

Being sensible can be excessively boring. At least Jack thinks so. While assuming the role of dutiful guardian in the country, he lets loose in town under a false identity. Meanwhile, his friend Algy takes on a similar facade. Unfortunately, living a double life has its drawbacks, especially when it comes to love. Hoping to impress two eligible ladies, the gentlemen find themselves caught in a web of lies they must carefully navigate.

Described as a ‘flawless piece of comic theatre’ by Broadway World and ‘A sparkling new production … that’s fiercely faithful to Wilde’s wickedly subversive spirit’ by the Daily Mail, The Importance of Being Earnest has received rave reviews and five and four stars.

The Importance of Being Earnest will be screened at the Torch Theatre on Saturday 22 February at 7pm. Tickets for the screening are priced at £15. Concessions: £13 and Under 26: £8.50. Visit the website for further details on www.torchtheatre.co.uk, phone the Box Office on (01646) 695267 or click here.