Longstreet hosts new take on Oscar Wilde classic this weekend
This week, Theatre South Carolina kicks off their 2012 season with a new adaptation of one of Oscar Wilde’s most beloved plays, “The Importance of Being Earnest.”
The strict-mannered sitting rooms of Victorian-era England have been exchanged for the music and style of 1960s-era London. Corsets and morning coats have been switched to beehive hairstyles and Jagger-esque silk shirts for a revamp that attempts to give audiences a new perspective on old themes.
To accomplish this ambitious reimaging, the stage at Longstreet Theatre has been turned into a replica of ’60s London, with an instantly recognizable red phone booth sitting center stage as one of the major set pieces throughout the play.
The set, designed by Kimi Maeda, acts as a character of its own, adding to the vivid retro vibe that is found almost everywhere in the production.
Music also plays an important part throughout the show. Dreamy musical sequences of The Rolling Stones and the Beatles are played as background music before the play and are used extensively during scene and set changes. The distinctive musical style of the ’60s adds an interesting dynamic, although it is hard to understand why the music is relevant to the play at times.
Overall, the new take on the play works. The cast and crew collaborate to ensure the transition from the sharp language of Wilde is not overtaken by the striking change in setting. . While it is obvious that Earnest can be translated across time gaps, the reasons why such a change should take place are not ever really qualified.
However, as always, Wilde’s plays are incredibly funny and satirical, and Theatre South Carolina takes full advantage of the opportunities in the script.
They manage to clarify a difficult plot and convoluted dialogue, although the pacing at the end feels a bit rushed. The cast works well together and apart, a difficult feat in such a confusing and fact-filled work. Emily Gonzalez, who plays Cecily , and Liam MacDougall, who plays the devilish Algernon , stand out particularly, both impressive in their timing and chemistry with their fellow actors.
It is also remarkable to note that not only is the role of Lady Bracknell played by a man (Rocco Thompson), but the role of Dr. Chasuble is played by a woman, Andrea Nurzburger.
“The Importance of Being Earnest” is a quirky, comedic season opener for Longstreet, and it offers classic Wilde humor in a slick new setting. The rich tongue-in-cheek script and the rock ‘n’ roll vibe of the set combine to offer a new and entertaining production.
The play runs from Oct. 5 to Oct. 13 at the Longstreet Theatre at 1300 Greene St. Tickets for students are $12 with a reduced price ticket for the late show on October 13.
For more information call the Longstreet Theatre at (803)-777-2551 or visit the Theatre Box office, which is open from 12:30 to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.