Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
Theater World: The Importance of Being Earnest
Coordinator
Ilene Hubbs
Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest,
a Trivial Comedy for Serious People was first
performed on 14 February 1895 at the St James’s
Theatre in London. It was immediately a huge hit,
full of some of the most sparkling verbal wit ever
heard. At the same time, it is an insightful critique
of the social mores of Wilde’s time in history. It is
considered a landmark in the history of Western
theatre, as well as being the writer’s greatest
achievement.
a Trivial Comedy for Serious People was first
performed on 14 February 1895 at the St James’s
Theatre in London. It was immediately a huge hit,
full of some of the most sparkling verbal wit ever
heard. At the same time, it is an insightful critique
of the social mores of Wilde’s time in history. It is
considered a landmark in the history of Western
theatre, as well as being the writer’s greatest
achievement.
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