Theatre Department presents Oscar Wilde’s 'The Importance of Being Earnest'

By Marc Speir
University News Service
September 28, 2007

The theatre department at Texas State University-San Marcos will present the Oscar Wilde classic The Importance of Being Earnest Oct. 2-6 at 7:30 p.m. and Oct. 7 at 2 p.m.

All showings will be in the main stage of the theatre center on campus at 601 University Drive.

There will also be a one-time touch tour designed for the visually impaired on October 3 at 6 p.m. Prior to the show, participants will be given the opportunity to physically interact with the set, costumes and props, and meet actors involved in the production.

Admission is $10 for the general public and $5 for students. Admission is free for those participating in the touch tour. Reservations for the touch tour must be made before Oct. 1 by calling Lori Smith in the theatre office at (512) 245-2147.

The last play ever written by Oscar Wilde, The Importance of Being Earnest is a witty satire of English society in the late Victorian era. The plot centers around the exploits of two wealthy young men who pretend their names are Ernest in order to impress the women in their lives. After swapping names and upsetting the seriousness of societal standards, this comedy of manners wraps up in a clever and ironic ending.

Director Richard Sodders says that the play is seen as the finest of Wilde’s career.

“It’s considered that way by most critics,” said Sodders, professor of theatre at Texas State. “His dialogue is pure genius.”

Sodders said the first main stage production of the 2007-2008 theatre season should please audiences.

“It’s a lot of fun,” Sodders said. “They’ll appreciate the set-up and preposterous situation of the play.”

For more information or to buy in advance, call the ticket office at (512) 245-2204.