(Clockwise from top left) Sara Clark as Gwendolen Fairfax, Jeremy Dubin as John Worthing, Brent Vimtrup as Algernon Moncrieff, Jesse Wray Goodman as Cecily Cardew & Jim Hopkins as Lady Bracknell. Photo by Jeanna Vella.
Panelists for the League of Cincinnati Theatres (LCT) have recognized Cincinnati Shakespeare Company’s THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST with an LCT nomination for featured actor, Jim Hopkins, as well as distinguishing it as a recommended production.
In a classic tale of romance and folly, two beautiful ladies are pursued by two dashing gentleman, but the gentlemen’s brother and friend complicate matters – especially since they don’t actually exist. One of the funniest comedies in the English language, THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST provides an examination of the hypocrisies and conventions of a so-called well-mannered society.
Panelists praised Jim Hopkins’ cross-dressing performance as Lady Bracknell as “hilarious, specifically because his straightforward delivery of the part allowed the humor and absurdity of the role to shine through.” “Nicely rounded and unexpectedly restrained.” The play as a whole was described as “a delightful performance that successfully captured the lightness and humor of Oscar Wilde’s play.”
THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST continues through December 16th. Tickets can be purchased at www.cincyshakes.com.
Final LCT awards will be determined at the end of the season and announced at the LCT gala in the spring.
The League of Cincinnati Theatres was founded in 1999 to strengthen, nurture and promote Cincinnati’s theatre community. LCT provides its member companies and individual members with education, resources and services to enhance the quality and exposure of the theatre community in Cincinnati and increase community awareness, attendance and involvement. More information about the League can be found at www.leagueofcincytheatres.com.
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