Directing Earnest at The Guild Theatre
Brendan Jones discusses directing The Importance of Being Earnest at The Guild Theatre, Rockdale.
“One’s real life is so often the life that one does not lead.” - Oscar Wilde
The Importance of Being Earnest, Wilde’s most famous play, twists this idea back on itself. Identities are thoroughly, wilfully, and hilariously misappropriated and misused as Wilde’s characters tie themselves in knots of contradiction, in order for them to lead the lives they want.
Jack and Algy represent different ideals of the age - Jack wishes to settle down respectfully, while Algy is an iconoclastic bon vivant. Both seek ways to bend the rules of polite society which they chafe against and thus provide an inventive plot where they have no-one to blame but themselves for their misfortunes!
Wilde’s earlier plays tended to feature three archetypes of women: a devoted wife, a woman with a scandalous past, or a doddering older lady for comic relief. Gwendolen, Cecily, and Lady Bracknell break these moulds as they are all strong characters who know their own minds and hold the power over the secrets revealed in the play. They are sharp and perceptive and drive the plot forward with their thoughts and actions.
Under the noble classes, we have Lane (and Merriman), Dr Chasuble, and Miss Prism. While the archetypes of the butler, the reverend, and the governess are common in this period, each of these characters subvert the traditions. Lane is sardonic, bordering on impudent; Dr Chasuble is proud without becoming overbearing; and Miss Prism subverts Wilde’s own ‘woman with a scandalous past’ trope while also occupying a romantic role.
I chose this play as I have loved it since I played Algernon nearly 20 years ago. In the intervening time, my appreciation for the play has only grown. This has been matched and exceeded by seeing it played by my wonderful, inventive, and witty cast, and by the tireless work of the crew and other Guild members in bringing the set to life. I look forward to you now enjoying a part of the fun we’ve had over the past few months.
Finally, a special thanks to my husband Rod for his support and advice throughout the whole process of bringing this show to you.
Enjoy!
Click here to read Stage Whispers' review.
Season
March 6 – 38, 2026
The Guild Theatre, Walz St, Rockdale
Click here to read our feature about Community Theatre seasons across Australia in 2026.
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