‘Life is far too important a thing ever to talk seriously about.’

Micheál Mac Liammóir’s renowned play The Importance of Being Oscar returns to the stage following huge critical acclaim.

 Step beyond the footlights into the private world of Oscar Wilde.

 Told in the shadows of Reading Gaol, where Wilde was imprisoned, this strictly limited run will immerse audiences in a compelling journey through the loves and losses, successes and struggles of the iconic man – from the eccentric socialite to the imprisoned outcast. 

A beautiful tribute to an icon of the world of theatre, liberally laced with Wilde’s signature wit and wisdom and featuring excerpts of many of his best-loved works including An Ideal Husband, The Picture of Dorian Gray, The Importance of Being Earnest and The Ballad of Reading of Gaol. This one man show promises to be a Wilde-ly entertaining night. 

Directed by Michael Fentiman (Amelie, Jekyll & Hyde, The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe) and co- produced with the multi award-winning Original Theatre who brought you the hit tours of Agatha Christie’s The Mirror Crack’d, Being Mr Wickham and Alan Bennett’s The Habit of Art.

Join us 6 June for a post-show discussion with Andrew Mangham (Chair) Professor of Victorian Literature and Medical Humanities at The University of Reading, John Scholar Lecturer of English Literature at The University of Reading, Sos Eltis Professor at The University of Oxford, Geoff Sawers author of an account of Oscar Wilde’s Incarceration in Reading Gaol, and Alastair Whatley, performer.

Age Guidance 10+.

Please note that on Tuesday 4th June the production will be being filmed. This should not impact your experience when watching the production.

Access

Our Relaxed Performance takes place on 1 June at 3pm. Our Relaxed Performances have reduced capacity to help create the best experience.

Click here for access information 

UNDER 30’S

From 23 – 25 May, tickets will be £5 for those between 16-30 years old.

BOOK NOW using the code 30UNDER on checkout

*please note, tickets are limited to two people per purchase. Ticket buyers must bring proof of age to Box Office. The number of discounted tickets is limited to 30 per performance. 

FAMILIES

Get 4 tickets for the price of 3. 2 of those tickets MUST be child tickets.

BOOK NOW using the code RRFAMILY on checkout.

SCHOOL BOOKINGS

Reading Rep Theatre has a long history of working with schools, and we look forward to collaborating with you. If you would like to discuss a bespoke workshop for your school or group please email engage@readingrep.com

For schools enquiries and ticket bookings, please email boxoffice@readingrep.com

Want to walk in Oscar’s footsteps? Join the Oscar Wilde Tour with Reading Museum on 25 May 2024 at 2pm

Join the museums expert volunteer tour guides to discover the amazing life and talent of this beloved author and his links with Reading. Price £10 per person.