Oscar Wilde classic brought to life in Newquay

A youth theatre group is bringing a new production of one of Oscar Wilde’s best-known plays to the stage in Newquay.

Cornwall Youth Theatre Company is presenting its take on The Importance of Being Earnest, the classic comedy of manners first performed in 1895.

The production follows the tangled lives of two young men leading double lives, as they attempt to avoid social obligations and find themselves caught up in a series of farcical situations.

The company says the show captures Wilde’s “wit and humour with strong characterisation and fast-paced repartee”, bringing the well-known story to life for a modern audience.

The theatre company is touring two productions this season, with The Importance of Being Earnest described as a lively comedy centred on characters Algernon and Jack as they backpedal through increasingly awkward situations of their own making.

The cast features performers aged between 12 and 21 from across Cornwall.

The charity says it aims to give young people the opportunity to develop their skills and gain practical experience of performing and producing touring theatre in a professional environment, while also building confidence and encouraging teamwork.

The show will be staged at Lane Theatre on Sunday 29 March.

Tickets are available via LaneTheatre.co.uk and CornwallYouthTheatre.co.uk