Calling all StageSiders, welcome back to another review here at StageSideUK. This time, we headed to Darlington Hippodrome for The Importance of Being Oscar, presented by Original Theatre Company. So if you are a fan of Oscar Wilde, theatre or just looking for your next night out, keep on reading!
Disclaimer: We were gifted a pair of free tickets in exchange for an honest review of the show.
Celebrating the life, wit and words of one of Britain’s greatest playwrights, this production doesn’t simply tell the story of Oscar Wilde, it makes you feel as though you’ve spent an evening in his company. The Importance of Being Oscar is a one man show devised by the soi-disant Irish actor Micheál Mac Liammóir and based on the writings of Oscar Wilde. It intersperses excerpts from Wilde’s plays and other writings with biographical highlights of his life.
Whether you’re already familiar with Wilde’s remarkable life or are discovering his story for the very first time, this production strikes a wonderful balance between education and entertainment. As someone who was aware of Wilde, but not quite slipping into the stan section, I really learned alot. It never feels like a history lesson though. Instead, the night invites audiences into Wilde’s world, exploring both his extraordinary successes and the challenges that shaped the final years of his life.
At the centre of the production is a captivating performance that perfectly captures Wilde’s charm, intelligence and razor-sharp wit. With great character work, monologues, spoken word and some truly great comic timing, Alastair Whatley really gives this role his all! The storytelling flows effortlessly, moving between moments of strong comedy and genuine emotional reflection without ever losing its rhythm. Before you know it, two hours have passed, a true testament to just how engaging the production is.
One of the things I particularly enjoyed was the simplicity of the staging. The set is minimal,being a platform, a lighting rig and a large LED halo behind Whatley, but it never feels empty. Instead, every piece has a purpose, allowing the focus to remain exactly where it should be: on Wilde’s words and history. It’s a reminder that theatre doesn’t always need elaborate scenery or complex effects to captivate an audience. Sometimes, great writing and a brilliant performance are more than enough.
What impressed me most was how relevant Wilde’s observations still feel today. Despite being written more than a century ago, many of his thoughts on society, identity and human nature remain uncomfortably current. The production celebrates his humour without overlooking the hardships he endured, creating a portrait that feels honest, respectful and deeply engaging. The show even touches on the challenging, and sometimes troubled moments in Wilde’s life.
Original Theatre Company have crafted a production that is intelligent, funny and genuinely moving. It celebrates one of our greatest literary figures while reminding us why his work continues to resonate with audiences today.
Accessibility
The production is dialogue-led and features minimal staging throughout. There are no significant technical effects, making it a comfortable experience for audiences who prefer productions without loud noises or intense lighting, however the end of act 1 and act 2 end in blackouts after a burst of bright light.
Value for Money
With tickets priced in the mid-£20 range, The Importance of Being Oscar offers exceptional value for money. For two hours of engaging storytelling and an outstanding performance, it’s an evening of theatre that feels well worth the investment.
If you’re looking for a thoughtful, beautifully performed evening at the theatre, The Importance of Being Oscar is well worth your time. Funny, heartfelt and wonderfully written, it’s a fitting celebration of a man whose words continue to stand the test of time.
Have Your Say
Have you seen The Importance Of Being Oscar? What did you think of the show? Let me know in the comments and lets get a discussion going.
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Alyx Taylor-Scott