Cundall Manor Upper School News

Wednesday 4^th March 2009

The Importance of Being Earnest

Last night saw the first and, more's the pity, only performance of the Upper School's Importance of Being Earnest. And what a wonderful performance it was. 

Hosted in Richmond's Georgian Theatre, whose elegance and heritage befits Oscar Wilde's classical observations of Edwardian society, and whose modest scale no doubt helped diminish the fears of an inexperienced cast, the play showcased an impressive array of talent and teamwork. Ms Smith and Miss Martola had worked tirelessly to produce the most beautiful sets and scenery. Alex Shepherd and his team of stage hands ensured that set changes ran smoothly and props were always to hand. Mrs Riddell had evidently coached her cast to perfection, instilling in each and every member the confidence to immerse themselves totally in their characters.

Bertie Weber's refined and restrained Jack was the perfect foil to Philip Fiedlhouse's hilariously pompous Algernon. Tor Peters played a charming Cecily whilst Maddie Wright gave us a spirited Gwendolyn.  Alex Eadon provided a characteristically deadpan Dr Chasuble. Henry Kearle enjoyed impromptu laughs as the multi-mustachio'd manservant Lane. Harrsion Law gave a worthy performance as the harassed Merriman.  Harriet Pepper's natural grace and beauty, as Miss Prism, were the perfect complement to what, in an inspired piece of casting by Mrs Riddell, had to be the highlight of the evening - Alex Pern's monumental Lady Bracknell. To maintain ‘her' imperious demeanour and soprano voice - not to mention her gravity defying hairpiece - was a truly creditable feat! Credit must also go to Sophie Foster, Alex Sheppard, Olivia Benson and Charles Edgar whose roles, although loss considerable, were just as convincing.

In all earnestness, it was a truly enchanting evening of theatrical entertainment.