The Pantaloons present 'The Importance of Being Earnest' by Oscar Wilde

THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST

Everybody loves Ernest. In fact, Cecily and Gwendolen are both engaged to Ernest. The only trouble is, he doesn’t exist. Or does he…?

Best friends Jack and Algy have both created alter-egos to win the affections of their beloveds; but when will they stop being Ernest and start being, well, earnest?

Wilde’s comic masterpiece gets The Pantaloons treatment in their anarchic take on the classic comedy of manners. This energetic and musical production from the critically-acclaimed company infuses Wilde’s witty words with snappy new songs and frantically funny physical theatre to give this perennially popular play a hilarious contemporary twist!

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions about the 2024 Open-Air Theatre Festival: 

Seating:

• No seating is provided. Please bring low-back seating and/or blankets,
• An area for people on blankets is reserved at the front.  
• If you still wish to be socially distanced please sit towards the rear or sides of the audience area
• Performances start at the stated time so please arrive in good time to take your seats

Tickets:

• Disabled people are welcome to a free ticket for their carer/assistant. Please call the box office on 01805 624624
• Every 11^th ticket is free for group bookings. Available via the box office on 01805 624624
• Tickets, if not sold out, are also available on the gate (cash or cards).
• Ticket holders enjoy free access to the gardens two hours before 7pm performances and one hour before earlier performances. (Or earlier for pre-show drama workshop ticket holders)
• Most performances last approx 2 hours with a 20 minute interval
• Minimum ages are advisory only. Please use your discretion.

Refreshments:

• Please support the high quality onsite catering/bar facilities that are available at most venues
• Check with the individual venue for more details.
• Hartland Abbey: Ring for details (tbc)
• Castle Hill Filleigh: Tea/coffee sandwiches & cakes etc
• Tapeley Park: Hot & cold food and bar                                     
• Arlington Court (NT): Hot & cold food and bar             
• Clovelly Court Park: Soft drinks + tea/coffee available.                          
• Blackberry Farm Milton Damerel: Hot & cold food and bar       
• Castle Hill Gardens, Torrington: Hot & cold food and bar
• The Lodge, Eggesford: Bar and Barbecue         
• Castle Drogo (NT): Please bring your own picnics/drinks          
• Lapford Mill, Mid Devon: Hot & cold food and bar                               
• Reforge Retreat: Bar and snacks available
• Badock Gardens, Holsworthy: Teas/coffees/biscuits

Weather:

• Performances continue regardless of the weather. Be prepared.
• There are no indoor alternatives in case of bad weather.
• In the event of electrical storm, tickets will be exchanged for another date.
• The following may be useful: A torch, insect repellent, an umbrella (or sunshade!)

Dogs:

• Well behaved dogs are welcome at most venues. Check with the venue. (Castle Drogo (NT): Assistance dogs only.)

Access:

• Most venues have level access, adjacent parking and accessible toilet facilities. For specific access information please call the box office on 01805 624624 or contact the individual venue via their website.

Other Info:

• Please bring cash for a raffle to support The Plough Arts Centre. £1 per ticket. One winner takes half the proceeds!