ABC Theatre Company presents “The Importance of Being Earnest” by Oscar Wilde.
This fast-paced romantic comedy classic set in England during the 1890s is a hilarious story of mistaken identity. A young gentleman named Jack has been living a secret double life under the name of Ernest in order to avoid his responsibilities. When he makes a marriage proposal, confusion ensues and he finds that he has many things to clear up.
Through witty lines and satirical jokes, Oscar Wilde encouraged the audience of his day to laugh at themselves and the very rigid English society of the time. The play has been adapted into several movies and TV shows. Readers may be familiar with the 2002 movie version starring Colin Firth, Reese Witherspoon and Judi Dench.
The show will be performed Friday, Saturday and Sunday July 8, 9 and 10 at the Braham Event Center. Dinner Theatre performances will be at 6:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday night and cost $25. Dessert Matinee performances will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday afternoon and cost $15. Tickets are now available at www.abctheatrecompany.com or call 763-444-4539 for more information. All seats are reserved and each table accommodates six people. Purchase your group tickets all together. All tickets will be held at the door.
Formed in 2008 the ABC (A Bunch of Characters) Theatre Company’s mission is to produce plays that provide opportunities for inter-generational involvement and family participation. They strive to include, educate and train those who may not have had the opportunity to be involved in theatrical productions in the past.
In keeping with this mission statement, cast members Noah Somerville from Coon Rapids will be making his theatrical debut as Algernon and Matt Anderson of Mora as Algernon’s manservant Lane. Braham native Teresa Rajkowski who has been very active in community theatre over the years will be playing the part of Lady Bracknell. Emily McLean from Mahtomedi plays Gwendolyn and has been featured in previous ABC Theatre productions. Katerina Fager from Cedar plays the part of Cecily. Several Isantians are involved: Lucas Parson fills the role of Jack. Becka Jo Bredeson and Keith Bredeson play Miss Prism and Dr. Chasuble, respectively. Jason Goetz plays Jack’s butler Merriman. Regina Zabinski is stage manager and general understudy.
The show’s director Dawn Holmquist said, “Rehearsals are going very well. The cast is having fun learning British accents and solidifying as an ensemble. You will not want to miss this chance to see Oscar Wilde’s best classic at this beautiful venue so close to home.”