The Importance
Of
Being Ernest

Concord’s Sixth Form play this year was The Importance Of Being Ernest, Oscar Wilde’s comedy set in Victorian England. The play, first performed on Valentines Day in 1895 is a classic of comedy in English by the famous Irish writer. It requires both timing and expression from the entire cast, something the Sixth Form students involved accomplished in some style.

Concord Drama teacher, Mrs Sarah Hickman who directed the production commented: “When selecting the play, we wanted something that would stretch the students both intellectually and artistically. Oscar Wilde felt like the perfect choice.”

Describing the play, she explained “The Importance of Being Earnest stood out as a witty, sophisticated comedy full of secrets, scandals, and social satire—ideal for students ready to tackle its linguistic precision and thematic complexity.”

The evening audience of students, staff, parents and local supporters of the college was treated to witty, fast-paced dialogue, gorgeous costumes and beautiful staging which combined to transport them to another time.

Mrs Hickman added her congratulations to the cast, “Their commitment, creativity, and maturity shone through. I am immensely proud of what they achieved in such a short time. They captured the sharp humour and social hypocrisy of late‑Victorian England with real flair, delivering a performance that was both polished and genuinely entertaining.”

Principal, Dr Michael Truss watched the evening performance: “It was a pleasure to share in a hugely enjoyable evening that will be remembered for a long time most especially for the superb comic timing of the cast”

Accompanying the play, the Johan Quartet and pianist Kendrick were exceptional. Pre-show and interval music was provided by Rio, Henry and Kingston who set the mood for the evening perfectly.