Today’s blog comes to you from none other than our favourite Merriman aka the talented Claire Rowbottom!
But what if your name isn’t Ernest?How important is it really? Well, Gwendoline and Cecily would have us believe that being Ernest is, in fact, everything! And you do not want to cross these two diary writing, tea supping, cake disdaining, sugar pushing instant BFFs and simultaneous rivals in matrimony – and don’t even get them started about spades!
Act Two hit the ground running last night. It was first time with books down and it was pretty darn brilliant. There were naturally a few stops and starts but do you know, the main reason is because we can’t stop laughing! Oh not at ourselves, although we are, of course, quite an amusing bunch, but because the lines are just so flipping funny!
If it isn’t the cast genuinely laughing at the wit laden lines, it’s the audience getting caught up in the hilarity of the dialogues. Wilde is a canny writer and even though we have heard the lines several times over now, it is still eminently guffaw inspiring. Our audiences are going to be in for such a treat – they definitely won’t be asking for the dog-cart to take them away till the very end!!
The whole process of exploring and getting to know our characters is brilliant fun! In between shuffling tea cups, stopping the servants snaffling more food than Algy, looking down my nose at Algy, frowning at Algy’s impossible array of luggage (3 portmanteaux I ask you!) and generally being delighted at anything that hints at Algy’s departure, I am realising, more and more, that Algy is not Merriman’s favourite person, and I love making that clear – a glare speaks a thousand words!
I am also loving watching the BFFs battle it out in the love stakes, the Bunburying and parrying between the gents and the unequivocally eloquent etiquette that attends every situation.
There was one minor slip from decorum when the incorrigible Miss Prism left Dr Chasuble in no doubt about her intent as she walked across stage in a state of unbuttoned glory after a costume try on. I think Dr Chasuble had to retire to the Rectory for some quiet time, but not before apparently showing off his latest bowling techniques.
Have you got your tickets yet?! Book them now!
The Lady in the Van 