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The Importance of Being Earnest photo on Stagedoor
The Importance of Being Earnest photo on Stagedoor

The Importance of Being Earnest Tickets

Show Ended  •  Plays

Sold out at the National Theatre, transferring to Noël Coward Theatre this autumn!

Show Ended

Thu 18 Sep 2025 - Sat 10 Jan 2026 2pm & 7pm

Runtime

2h 45m (inc. interval)

Genre

Important Information

Please note: Olly Alexander will not be performing on from Friday 7 to Thursday 13 November.

About The Importance of Being Earnest

Olly Alexander (It’s A Sin) stars as Algernon Moncrieff in Max Webster’s vibrant reimagining of Oscar Wilde’s sparkling comedy, praised by the Telegraph as a ‘glittering masterpiece.’ The story follows Jack, who escapes his dull guardian duties by adopting a false identity in the city. His friend Algy does the same, but juggling double lives leads to complicated romantic entanglements. Together, they must untangle their web of lies to win over two eligible ladies.

The Story Unfolds: Origins and Evolution

The National Theatre’s sold-out production of The Importance of Being Earnest transfers to the Noël Coward Theatre this autumn in a co-production with Sonia Friedman Productions.

This The Importance of Being Earnest play is a joyful and flamboyant reimagining of Oscar Wilde’s glittering masterpiece, first performed in 1895. The story follows Jack Worthing, who leads a double life as a responsible guardian in the country and a carefree gentleman in town. Alongside his friend Algernon Moncrieff, played by Olly Alexander (It's A Sin), they both adopt false identities to escape societal expectations.

The plot hilariously unravels through mistaken identities, romantic pursuits, and witty banter, culminating in a sparkling comedy of manners.

Behind the Scenes: Crafting the Spectacle

Directed by Max Webster, known for his work on Donmar’s Macbeth and Life of Pi, this The Importance of Being Earnest West End production brings a fresh vibrancy to Wilde’s classic.

This production is praised for its inventive staging, clever costume design, and sparkling dialogue, all contributing to its sold-out status at the National Theatre. The show has garnered critical acclaim, praised for its ability to balance sharp wit with emotional depth.

Keep in Mind

Don’t miss your chance to see this extraordinary revival of The Importance of Being Earnest. With tickets selling fast, book your The Importance of Being Earnest tickets now for a night of laughter, and dazzling theatricality at the Noël Coward Theatre.

Experience one of Oscar Wilde’s most beloved works in a production that honours its history while bringing something fresh and exciting to the West End stage.