Overview
The elegantly absurd plot centres on Jack Worthing, who is "Ernest" in town. He wins Gwendolen's hand, but she declares that she chiefly loves him for his name Ernest-the name Jack has allotted to his non-existent brother whose peccadilloes explain his frequent absences from his country home where lives his pretty ward Cecily. Another formidable impediment to Jack's happiness is Lady Bracknell, who shudders at Jack's having been found in a handbag at Victoria Station. Meanwhile, Cecily has decided to marry "Ernest". When Algernon presents himself in this guise, she immediately accepts his proposal. But she too will only marry an "Ernest". However, through some highly improbable coincidences, all is happily resolved.
Oscar Wilde's comedy has been adapted into a delightful musical with many enchanting songs and this period play, set in the 1890s, can be staged as simply or elaborately as desired.
The Scenes
Act I Outside Green Park, in the heart of London, 1895. Lake's, one of London's most fashionable tailors. The morning-room in Algernon's flat in Half Moon Street. In the grounds of the Manor House, Woolton, Hertfordshire. A secluded corner of the flower garden. The trellis garden
Act II The topiary garden. The terrace at tea time. The conservatory at the Manor House. The library of the Manor House
The Music includes
"Bunburying," "Born in a Handbag," and "The Importance of Being Earnest".