Guthrie Theater

In Oscar Wilde's most perfect comedy, loved for its sensational characters and popular one-liners, young bachelors Jack and Algernon each assume a pseudonym to woo the women who have won their hearts. Abandoned in London's Victoria Station as an infant and now living in a country manor, Jack has fallen in love with Algernon's cousin Gwendolen, the daughter of the formidable Lady Bracknell. In order to meet with her in London he invents "Ernest," a fictitious brother who demands his attention in the city. Meanwhile Algernon escapes his obligations in London to visit his friend "Bunbury" in the country. There Algernon meets and falls in love with Jack's ward Cecily, and the stage is set for clever manipulations and hilarious confusion. When each gentleman is forced to unwind his web of lies and reveal himself to the ladies - and in Jack's case, his parentage to Lady Bracknell - being earnest takes new meaning.

Media Sponsor: Kare 11

Run time

2 hours and 19 minutes including one intermission

Resources

Play Guide created by the Guthrie Theater