“Happily, this revival starring Alastair Whatley, which arrives in London fresh from a few months’ touring, turns out to be neither cynical nor basement-bound.” By Dominic Maxwell, Aug 1 · 5/5 stars
PLAYREVIVALOff-WECLOSED
The Importance of Being Oscar
Park Theatre · 1h 50m
Opened Jul 29, 2026 · Closed Aug 22, 2026 · Ran for 1 month
4 Rave
9 Positive
4 Mixed
1 Negative
Critics' Take
Whatley delivers an engaging, scholarly portrait of Wilde through his own words, though critics split on whether the restrained, educational approach captures the writer's flamboyant spirit or feels overly earnest.
This show has closed. Tickets are no longer available.
Critic Scorecard
18 reviews4 Rave
9 Positive
4 Mixed
1 Negative
Sort:
Weighted by outlet tier · Counts
- Tier 1: 100%
- Tier 2: 75%
- Tier 3: 40%
- Tier 4: 20%
“Thought-provoking, deeply moving and magnificently performed, The Importance of Being Oscar is theatre at its most intimate and affecting.” By Bernadette Lintunen, Jul 29
“This is an engaging, vivid, emotionally and intellectually rich evening spent in the company of a true great.” ReviewsGate Staff, Jul 25 · 4/5 stars
“Alastair Whatley delivers a compelling performance that never lets your attention wander and fully does justice to this theatrical classic.” All That Dazzles (UK) Staff, Jul 28 · 4/5 stars
“The Importance of Being Oscar is incredibly touching and unfortunately still current and important in today’s shifting climate.” A Shiny Life For Me! Staff, Jul 28 · 4/5 stars
