The Importance of Being Earnest
presented by OVO
by Oscar Wilde
adapted and directed by Adam Nichols
“The truth is rarely pure and never simple...”
Especially when everyone’s pretending to be Ernest.
OVO reimagines Oscar Wilde’s classic with a sparkling 1920s twist: fizzing physical comedy, art-deco design and a live jazz soundtrack.
This musical adaptation whips up a stylish world of cucumber sandwiches, scandal and mistaken identity, whilst a live band threads re-scored contemporary chart hits (including Lizzo, Eminem, Katy Perry, Lady Gaga, Lionel Richie and Queen) through Wilde’s effervescent dialogue.
“A crowd-pleasing, entertaining update.” The Stage
Join Jack, Algy, Gwendolen and Cecily as engagements multiply, handbags are examined and a single name turns society upside-down. This Earnest is witty, romantic and gloriously playful.
“This production races around with frantic energy. The aim to amuse is hit with abundant energy and gusto.” Everything Theatre
OVO makes its sixth appearance at the Minack, following rapturously received productions of A Midsummer Night’s Dream (2025), The Threepenny Opera (2023), The Winter’s Tale (2021), Much Ado About Nothing (2018) and the Minack trophy winning As You Like It (2016).
“An exquisitely entertaining production.” The Upcoming
“Brings new life to a classic - comedy at its absolute best.” Herts Advertiser
Approx. 2h 20m (inc. interval)
From: £12.00 - £36.00
Suitable for age 8+
Minack Theatre
Porthcurno, Penzance, Cornwall, TR19 6JU
01736 810181
[email protected]
First visit to the Minack
Read these helpful tips to help you prepare for your visit
You can find out all about our current events and storytelling shows on our What's On pages.
If you have any questions about booking please don't hesitate to contact our Box Office team. The box office is open for telephone bookings daily from 10am - 4pm. Call 01736 810181.
For our top tips for watching a performance see our FAQs.
Ticket prices vary depending on the performance and where you choose to sit. For most events children aged 15 or under are half price.
If a show appears as SOLD OUT there are no more tickets available. We do not operate waiting lists for tickets.
When you make your booking you will receive a confirmation message through by email with your tickets.
Digital tickets will also be sent shortly before the date of your performance via text and you will receive an information email about your visit.
See our full list of FAQS here. If you are still unsure please contact us.
The Minack is not like other theatres. Our seating is on either grass or concrete terraces. If the performance staging permits, a few tickets are available for members of the audience to sit on the stage.
Our auditorium is very steep and there are a lot of steps. If you are unsure about where to sit, please phone and we'll be very happy to help you. You can also check out the photos below to see the view from various parts of the auditorium.
We have an accessible balcony for those with limited mobility. If you have other seating requirements, please phone to discuss your needs.
An induction loop is available on the grass terraces and in the accessible balcony.
If you have a group booking, it is helpful if you all arrive together so that we can seat you next to each other.
If this is your first visit to the Minack take a look at our handy tips for your visit, they'll help you to prepare yourself!
There are also example views from seating areas below - although please note there will be audience members in front of you!
If you have special access requirements visit our Accessibility page or contact us with your questions.
Read our full booking terms and conditions here.
