THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST to Open at Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival, 7/12

Oscar Wilde's scintillating wit and romantic archetypes fill one of the most celebrated comedies of all time. The Importance of Being Earnest opens on the Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival's main stage Friday, July 12, with previews July 10 and 11, and runs through August 4. The Importance of Being Earnest will play in repertory with Measure for Measure.

The Importance of Being Earnest offers a tale of two well-to-do gentlemen, John Worthing played by Blake Ellis and Algernon Moncrieff played by Zack Robidas, as they pursue countryside adventures, love, and identities - both real and invented. Gwendolen Fairfax captures John's heart and is performed by Alexie Gilmore, whose feature film credits include starring opposite Robin Williams in World's Greatest Dadand Matthew McConaughey in Surfer Dude. Cecily Cardew, played by PSF veteran Erin Partin, catches Algernon's eye.

Algernon and John's falsified identities prevail until the young gents cross paths with the indomitable Lady Bracknell, Wilde's symbol of Victorian ethics run amok. Director and PSF veteran Jim Helsinger plays Lady Bracknell, in the tradition of great male comedic actors in the role.

The cast includes Wayne S. Turney as Rev. Canon Chasuble, and Brad DePlanche as John Worthing's butler, Merriman. Playing Miss Prism, Cecily's governess is Suzanne O'Donnell, while Greg Wood takes on the role of Lane, Algernon's butler.

Lighting is designed by two-time Barrymore award winner Thom Weaver. Scenic design is by six-time Emmy winner Bob Phillips. Lisa Zinni designed the costumes, and sound design is created by Matthew Given, PSF's resident designer. Jane Ridley is the accent coach.Stacy Renee Norwood serves as stage manager, with Alison Hassman as assistant stage manager. Matt Pfeiffer serves as associate director.

Tickets: $25-55. Discounts for students, seniors, subscribers and groups.

Box Office: 610.282.WILL [9455] Order online at: www.pashakespeare.org.