 Claire Wittman as Cecily Cardew and Korey Harlow as Algernon Moncrieff in The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde. |
| The Grand Finale of 2026 Shakespeare Fest After a summer of immersive Shakespeare, unforgettable performances, and thousands of audience members joining us in Richmond and Williamsburg, Richmond Shakespeare concludes 2026 Shakespeare Fest with Oscar Wilde’s beloved comedy, The Importance of Being Earnest. Opening Friday, August 7, at the intimate Richmond Triangle Players Robert B. Moss Theatre, Wilde’s masterpiece is a sparkling comedy of mistaken identities, unlikely romances, and brilliantly witty dialogue that has delighted audiences for more than 130 years. Directed by Irene Kuykendall, this fresh production celebrates the elegance and humor that have made The Importance of Being Earnest one of the most beloved plays in the English language. “The Importance of Being Earnest reminds us that great comedy never goes out of style,” says Jase Smith Sullivan, Managing Director of Richmond Shakespeare. “Oscar Wilde’s brilliant wit feels just as sharp and relevant today as it did in 1895. After a summer filled with immersive Shakespeare and innovative storytelling, we’re thrilled to close the season with one of the funniest plays ever written. “Follow Jack and Algernon as their invented alter egos lead them into increasingly outrageous situations, unforgettable misunderstandings, and the unforgettable Lady Bracknell. Filled with clever wordplay and timeless satire, this is the perfect way to celebrate the close of another remarkable festival season. |
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| Boomie Pedersen as Lady Bracknell and Felicia Fields as Gwendolen Fairfax in The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde. |
| An All-Star Cast Brings Wilde’s Classic to Life Experience Oscar Wilde’s razor-sharp wit performed by an outstanding ensemble featuring Korey Harlow, Toby O’Brien, Boomie Pedersen, Felicia Fields, Claire Wittman, Patricia Austin, Andrew Gall, and Dixon Cashwell. Presented in the intimate Richmond Triangle Players Robert B. Moss Theatre, we’ve transformed the theatre into Algernon Moncrieff’s luxurious London parlor, inviting audiences to step inside the world of Oscar Wilde. Rather than simply watching the play, you’ll feel like a guest in Algernon’s home as the comedy unfolds around you, making every witty exchange and outrageous revelation feel delightfully close. Richmond Triangle Players Robert B. Moss Theatre 1300 Altamont Avenue, Richmond, VA 23230 August 7–29, 2026 Thursday, Friday & Saturday | 7:30 PM Sunday | 2:00 PM Whether you’re revisiting a favorite classic or discovering The Importance of Being Earnest for the very first time, this joyful, elegant comedy is the perfect finale to 2026 Shakespeare Fest. Reserve your seats today and join us for one last unforgettable theatrical experience this summer! |