Esther Marks
10 April, 2025
News

Hilarious theatrical chaos heads to Newcastle as The Importance of Being… Earnest? lands at Tyne Theatre & Opera House

Newcastle theatre-lovers, prepare yourselves – things are about to get wildly unpredictable at the Tyne Theatre & Opera House this May. The critically acclaimed comedy The Importance of Being… Earnest? is rolling into town for two nights only, on the 7th and 8th of May, promising an evening of side-splitting laughter, audience chaos, and completely unscripted fun.

...Earnest? by Say It Again, Sorry?

Fresh from its smash-hit run at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and a triumphant UK tour, this bold reimagining of Oscar Wilde’s iconic play The Importance of Being Earnest comes with one brilliant twist – the cast is shrinking, and audience members are thrown into the spotlight to save the show.

In this riotous farce, the actor playing Ernest mysteriously vanishes, and it’s up to unsuspecting audience members to step up, audition live, and take on roles with no rehearsal, no script, and no clue what’s coming next. The result? Utter mayhem – and some of the most unforgettable theatre moments you’ll ever witness.

...Earnest?
...Earnest? Credit: Say It Again, Sorry?

Since its debut in 2021, ...Earnest? has built a cult following, returning to Edinburgh Fringe three years in a row and casting nearly 2,000 audience members along the way. From first-timers nervously taking the stage to seasoned pros letting loose, the show has sparked friendships, careers, and even the occasional romance.

...Earnest?
...Earnest? Credit: Say It Again, Sorry?

Now on a UK-wide tour hitting nearly 30 venues, ...Earnest? is bringing its extended version to Newcastle, giving local audiences the chance to be part of the madness. Expect slapstick comedy, spontaneous performances, and a whole lot of audience participation. 

Catch ...Earnest? at Tyne Theatre & Opera House on 7–8 May. For more information and tickets: www.earnestshow.co.uk