Seriousness is pitted against triviality as Shawnigan stages an Oscar Wilde classic.
The Importance of Being Earnest began a three-night run on Thursday, transforming the Hugh C. Wilkinson Studio Theatre into Victorian England.
Featuring a strong cast of nine players, the actors embrace their roles within the period's upper-class, while also bringing new approaches to time-tested characters.
Playing the scheming Algernon Moncrief, Charlie M. brings a clever energy to the stage, while Carly G's Lady Augusta Bracknell ensures the characters, and in turn the audience, can track the morals being satirized. Even the lowly butlers, played by Carlos E. and Austin P, make sure that every player elicits at least a chuckle or two from the crowd.
Directed by Mr. Gregg Perry, the play features three simple, elegant sets as well as smooth production by the crew.
Generally regarded as one of the finest plays ever written, The Importance of Being Earnest feels completely at home on the Shawnigan stage.
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Shawnigan Lake School is an independent co-educational boarding school for ages 13 –18 on Canada’s beautiful West Coast. Our diverse, interdisciplinary and innovative programming helps shape the next generation of global leaders.