The Importance of Being Oscar

Step beyond the footlights into the private world of Oscar Wilde.

Dates Fri 15 May 2026 – Sat 16 May 2026

Venue Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, Guildford Past shows →

Performance Times 19:30 & 14:30

Synopsis

About the Show

Drama | Biography | Witty

“Life is far too important a thing ever to talk seriously about.”Original Theatre and Reading Rep Theatre present:THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING OSCAR
By Micheál Mac Liammóir
Starring Alastair Whatley
Directed by Michael Fentiman

Micheál Mac Liammóir’s renowned play The Importance of Being Oscar is returning to the stage following huge critical acclaim.

Step beyond the footlights into the private world of Oscar Wilde.

Told in the shadows of Reading Gaol, where Wilde was imprisoned. This strictly limited run will immerse audiences in a compelling journey through the loves and losses, successes and struggles of the iconic man. From the eccentric socialite to the imprisoned outcast.

A beautiful tribute to an icon of the world of theatre, liberally laced with Wilde's signature wit and wisdom and featuring excerpts of many of his best-loved works. These include An Ideal Husband, The Picture of Dorian Gray, The Importance of Being Earnest and The Ballad of Reading Gaol. This one man show promises to be a Wilde-ly entertaining night.

Directed by Michael Fentiman (Amelie, Jekyll & Hyde, Lion Witch & Wardrobe).

Co-produced with the multi-award winning Reading Rep Theatre who brought you the critically acclaimed DORIAN, Jekyll & Hyde and Hedda Gabler.

‘Every bit as Wildeanly witty as Oscar at his best' The Irish Times on The Importance of Being Oscar

Production Photos by Marc Brenner
Artwork Photo by Michael Wharley and Steph Pyne.

This production of The Importance of Being Oscar was performed at Reading Rep Theatre, 24 May - 8 June 2024

2 hours 15 minutes with interval

Age guidance 10+

Comedy Theatre The Importance of being Oscar Yvonne Arnaud Theatre