The Importance of Being Oscar
From 7:30PM, Tuesday, July 14, 2026 to 7:30PM, Thursday, July 16, 2026
Venue: Darlington Hippodrome
Members receive a 10% discount on this show – click on the ‘Memberships’ link at the very top of this page to find out more and sign up. Original Theatre & Reading Rep Theatre present THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING OSCAR By Micheál Mac Liammóir Starring Alastair Whatley Directed by Michael Fentiman The Importance of Being Oscar returns to the stage following huge critical acclaim and a hit London run. “A beautiful production - intimate and utterly compelling” Gyles Brandreth Step into the glittering, scandalous, witty world of Oscar Wilde. This funny, fierce and moving show brings the loves, losses, successes and struggles of the iconic man to brilliant life. From dazzling literary heights to a devastating fall that shocked the world, you’ll be immersed in the journey of a man who lived and loved without compromise, whilst creating some the most famous – and famously funny – plays still adored by millions today. 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 Gaol, this promises to be a Wilde-ly entertaining night. Experience Oscar as you’ve never seen him before – human, raw and defiant. Directed by Michael Fentiman (Amelie, Jekyll & Hyde, Lion Witch & Wardrobe) and produced by the Olivier nominated Original Theatre (Being Mr Wickham, The Interview, Birdsong). Age guidance 10+ ★★★★★ "Phenomenal… Alastair Whatley is truly magnificent as Wilde” Theatre and Tonic ★★★★★ “Captivating” Broadway World ★★★★★ "elegant and electrifying" The Spy in the Stalls ★★★★★ “unmissable magic” Plays to See ★★★★ “Powerful” The Arts Desk ★★★★ “An absolute delight” A Youngish Perspective ★★★★ “a gem” New European ★★★★ "Whatley captures us completely " Mark Aspen Reviews ★★★★ "Whatley's interpretation of Oscar…exemplary" The Reviews Hub ★★★★ "Heartbreaking and compelling" Love London Love Culture DRAMA MULTIBUY OFFER: GLORIOUS, MIDSOMER MURDERS and THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING OSCAR: Save 10% when booking 2 dramas, 15% when booking 3 dramas, and 20% when booking 4 dramas. Tickets must be booked at the same time.