Interview: Emily Barber Of THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST

New graduate Emily Barber has a pretty special West End debut - she's playing Gwendolen in The Importance of Being Earnest, sharing the stage with the legendary David Suchet.

How has the run been going?

It's gone really well. We had a six-week tour, which was great, because we got to see how different audiences took it. Then we came into London, and we've always had great audiences. We're still finding it funny. I still find it funny, it's not getting old at all.

The original take - with Suchet playing Lady Bracknell - must help with that.

We've all taken a fresh look at it. It's a new era of productions, and we've kept it fresh and alive, and our director has allowed us to play - we had a great time.

What do you mean by 'play'?

Just not having any restrictions. There is a period, which restricts me and Lady Bracknell, we're refined women of the era, but don't feel afraid of conventions. Cecily and Algernon were encouraged to find the moderness of the characters, and not just feel that it's a period piece. It's very modern.

I'm sure everyone has asked, but what's David like?

Having David as a role model is amazing. He is the most generous, nice, positive person to have in a company, and to learn from - he's a complete pro. We've been close because we're playing mother and daughter, so we have our little jokes. He's such a nice guy.

And it must be nice to have this job so early in your career!

I'm really lucky. I remember getting the audition through, and I did feel like I was destined to play it, a little bit. I went for it, through various rounds, and got it in the end. It's been a dream come true.

How are you all feeling about the live broadcast?

I don't think any of us really know what to expect! We've had people come in and fix the mics, but because the cameras aren't on stage, it won't be that intrusive. We're excited to show people what we're doing. There are so many people in so many places who'll get to watch it so that's exciting - we'll see what happens.

The LIVE broadcast of THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST starring David Suchet from London's Vaudeville Theatre will be screened across UK & Irish cinemas on 8th October at 7.15pm.

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