Original Theatre and Reading Rep Theatre Present

The Importance of Being Oscar

By Micheál Mac Liammóir
Starring Alastair Whatley
Directed by Michael Fentiman

“Life is far too important a thing ever to talk seriously about.”

Micheál Mac Liammóir’s renowned play The Importance of Being Oscar returns 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 including 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 first performed at
Reading Rep Theatre, 24 May - 8 June 2024