Winter Studio performance, Imagine Theatre presents:
The Importance of Being Earnest
A Play By Oscar Wilde
Note: This performance opportunity is for those ages 13-18 years old and are in High School. Student ages 13 and under are encouraged to sign up for our Winter 2023 Workshop.
A Play By Oscar Wilde
Note: This performance opportunity is for those ages 13-18 years old and are in High School. Student ages 13 and under are encouraged to sign up for our Winter 2023 Workshop.
About The Importance of Being Earnest (Summary & Characters)
Show Summary
The Importance of Being Earnest is the most renowned of Oscar Wilde’s comedies. It’s the story of two bachelors, John ‘Jack’ Worthing and Algernon ‘Algy’ Moncrieff, who create alter egos named Ernest to escape their tiresome lives. They attempt to win the hearts of two women who, conveniently, claim to only love men called Ernest. The pair struggle to keep up with their own stories and become tangled in a tale of deception, disguise and misadventure. The elaborate plot ridicules Victorian sensibilities with some of the best loved, and indeed bizarre, characters to be found on the modern stage.
The Importance of Being Earnest is the most renowned of Oscar Wilde’s comedies. It’s the story of two bachelors, John ‘Jack’ Worthing and Algernon ‘Algy’ Moncrieff, who create alter egos named Ernest to escape their tiresome lives. They attempt to win the hearts of two women who, conveniently, claim to only love men called Ernest. The pair struggle to keep up with their own stories and become tangled in a tale of deception, disguise and misadventure. The elaborate plot ridicules Victorian sensibilities with some of the best loved, and indeed bizarre, characters to be found on the modern stage.
Characters
John (Jack/Ernest) Worthing– The play’s protagonist. He appears to be a trustworthy man, but he regularly leaves his Hertfordshire estate to visit his fake brother Ernest in London.
Algernon Moncrieff – Algernon is the nephew of Lady Bracknell, cousin of Gwendolen Fairfax.
Gwendolen Fairfax – Algernon’s cousin and Lady Bracknell’s daughter.She is utterly pretentious and fancies herself as sophisticated and fashionable.
Cecily Cardew – Jack’s ward, the granddaughter of the elderly gentleman who found and adopted Jack. She is a hopeless romantic and constantly fantasizes about her Uncle Jack’s ‘brother’ Ernest
Lady Bracknell – Algernon’s fearsome, snooty, and overbearing aunt and Gwendolen’s mother.
Miss Prism – Cecily’s governess. She is an uptight and severe woman who tries to be a good role model for Cecily.
Rev. Canon Chasuble – The vicar on Jack’s Herefordshire estate. Dr. Chasuble has secret romantic feelings for Miss Prism.
Lane – Algernon’s servant.
Merriman – The butler at Jack’s house.
Ensemble
About The Artistic & Leadership Team and The Studio Program
Artistic and Leadership Team
What is Imagine's Studio Program?
The Studio is an environment where students seeking additional experience can work on supplemental projects and deepen their skills. These performance are different than Mainstage shows because they typically happen in a more intimate performance space, have smaller casts, and have other special features. For the Importance of Being Earnest, the special feature is that the show is only for students aged 14-18 years old.
- Director - Josh Carter
- Assistant Director & Stage Manager - Louis Kruse
- Producer - Rose Thoman
What is Imagine's Studio Program?
The Studio is an environment where students seeking additional experience can work on supplemental projects and deepen their skills. These performance are different than Mainstage shows because they typically happen in a more intimate performance space, have smaller casts, and have other special features. For the Importance of Being Earnest, the special feature is that the show is only for students aged 14-18 years old.
Important Dates (Audition/Callbacks, Rehearsals, Shows, etc.)
Auditions:
Date: Friday, Jan. 13th, 6:30PM
Location: Oak Grove United Methodist Church (14700 SE Rupert Dr, Oak Grove, OR 97267)
Callbacks:
Saturday, Jan. 14th, 9:00am-12:00pm
Location: Oak Grove United Methodist Church
Required Parent/Guardian Meeting:
Rehearsals:
*Additional rehearsals may be scheduled at the discretion of the artistic team. Detailed schedule to be passed out at first rehearsal. Students have the opportunity to let us know of rehearsal conflicts in the auditions form below. Families MUST declare all rehearsal conflicts pior to auditions, any conflicts/missed rehearsals - within reason - after auditions are considered non-excused and may impact your student's role in this show and/or future shows. *
Tech Week:
Anticipated Location: Chapel Theater - 4107 SE Harrison St, Milwaukie, OR 97222
Detailed schedule TBA.
Performances:
Anticipated Location: Chapel Theater - 4107 SE Harrison St, Milwaukie, OR 97222
Date: Friday, Jan. 13th, 6:30PM
Location: Oak Grove United Methodist Church (14700 SE Rupert Dr, Oak Grove, OR 97267)
Callbacks:
Saturday, Jan. 14th, 9:00am-12:00pm
Location: Oak Grove United Methodist Church
Required Parent/Guardian Meeting:
- Meeting 1 - Friday, Jan. 20th, 6-8pm (during rehearsal time). This meeting is about building connections, forming committees, etc. Each family/student must have one parent/guardian present.
- Meeting 2 - Friday, Feb. 17th, 6-8pm (during rehearsal time). This meeting prepares us for the coming production run by breaking into new committees (green room, concessions, etc.) Each family/student must have one parent/guardian present.
Rehearsals:
- Location: Oak Grove United Methodist Church
- Friday Evenings, 6pm-9pm (Jan. 20th - March 3rd)
- Saturdays, 9am-12:30pm (Jan. 21st - March 4th)
*Additional rehearsals may be scheduled at the discretion of the artistic team. Detailed schedule to be passed out at first rehearsal. Students have the opportunity to let us know of rehearsal conflicts in the auditions form below. Families MUST declare all rehearsal conflicts pior to auditions, any conflicts/missed rehearsals - within reason - after auditions are considered non-excused and may impact your student's role in this show and/or future shows. *
Tech Week:
Anticipated Location: Chapel Theater - 4107 SE Harrison St, Milwaukie, OR 97222
Detailed schedule TBA.
- Move-In: March. 5th, 2pm-10pm (All Parents/Guardians must attend.)
- Tech Week Rehearsals: Monday-Thursday, 3/6-3/9, 6pm-9pm
Performances:
Anticipated Location: Chapel Theater - 4107 SE Harrison St, Milwaukie, OR 97222
- Friday, March 10th at 7pm (Call Time 6pm)
- Saturday, March 11th at 2pm and 7pm (Call Time 1pm)
- Sunday, March 12th at 2pm (Call Time 1pm)
General Requirements & Parent/Guardian Expectations (Fees, Show Committees, etc.)
Requirements To Be In The Show
- Age: This production is open to actors ages 13-18 and in High School.
- Students are NOT required (though encouraged) to be enrolled in Imagine Theatre Winter 2023 classes to audition for this production. To learn about our class options and to register, please visit imaginetheatre.org/classes.
- Note: Per Imagine policy, it is assumed students will accept any role they are given. As an educational organization, we are focused on placing students in roles that will encourage growth. With that being said, Imagine does not refund class costs due to casting drops.
- If you have questions about your student’s ability to participate in a production please contact office@imaginetheatre.org.
Fees/Cost
- The Production Fee (paid by actors, not crew) for The Importance of Being Earnest will be $160, due by the second weekend of rehearsals.
- In a Winter '23 Class? Those in registered for a '23 Winter Class will receive $20 off their production fee.
- What Do We Get With The Production Fee? With this fee, students/families will get a show sticker, a digital link to photos, and 1 comp (free) ticket. (Max of 2 comp tickets per family for those with more than one student in the show.) Families/Students are given the opportunity to purchase a show shirt if desired.
- Scholarships: Scholarships are available for any Imagine Theatre program, including production fees. If you would like to speak with someone about scholarships, please contact our office.
- What is a Production Fee For? Production Fees are in place to assist in covering the expenses of putting on a show. For additional information on Production Fees, see our General Information.
Parent/Guardian Expectations (Show Committees, etc.)
Imagine Theatre cast member's are expected to have one adult (typically a parent, relative, or guardian) participate in Show Committee(s). Shows take lots of work, plus show committees are a fun way to meet other families and bond as a community!
More information about the show and committees will be discussed Jan. 20th from 6-8pm, at the required parent/guardian meeting. Families will communicate their schedule and skills for committee placement consideration.
Read about parent/guardian involvement expectations here
More information about the show and committees will be discussed Jan. 20th from 6-8pm, at the required parent/guardian meeting. Families will communicate their schedule and skills for committee placement consideration.
Read about parent/guardian involvement expectations here
Student Expectations & Code of Conduct
Imagine's Student Expectation & Code of Conduct communicates the expectations of students who participate in Imagine Programming. This covers electronic/cell phone expectations, behavioral expectations, and general safety considerations. Students and families/guardians will be required to sign the Student Expectations document, affirming that they have read it and agree to uphold these standards.
Crew & Backstage
We are looking to fill the following crew roles for this production of Importance of Being Earnest. If you are interested in any of these roles, please complete the Crew form.
Assistant Stage Manager (ages 13+): The Assistant Stage Manager is responsible for helping keep track of cast members, blocking, set movement and miscellaneous details during rehearsals and production of a stage performance as directed by the Artistic Team. They also attend all rehearsals and shows as well as move in day at the theater. Assistant Stage Manager will need to arrive 15 minutes before all call times.
Light Board Operator (ages 13+): The Light Board Operator is responsible for operating the light board during all performances. Performs daily light checks at the beginning of all technical rehearsals and performance call times to ensure that all lighting equipment is working properly. May participate in the programming of lights as well as the technical cue to cue.
Sound Board Operator (ages 13+): The Sound Board Operator is responsible for operating the sound board during all performances. Performs daily sound checks (with some assistance as needed) at the beginning of all technical rehearsals and performance call times to ensure that all sound equipment is working properly.
Props Manager (ages 13+): The Props Master is responsible for managing the props of the show. Performs daily checks at the beginning of all technical rehearsals and performance call times to ensure that all props are is working properly and in place.
Assistant Stage Manager (ages 13+): The Assistant Stage Manager is responsible for helping keep track of cast members, blocking, set movement and miscellaneous details during rehearsals and production of a stage performance as directed by the Artistic Team. They also attend all rehearsals and shows as well as move in day at the theater. Assistant Stage Manager will need to arrive 15 minutes before all call times.
Light Board Operator (ages 13+): The Light Board Operator is responsible for operating the light board during all performances. Performs daily light checks at the beginning of all technical rehearsals and performance call times to ensure that all lighting equipment is working properly. May participate in the programming of lights as well as the technical cue to cue.
Sound Board Operator (ages 13+): The Sound Board Operator is responsible for operating the sound board during all performances. Performs daily sound checks (with some assistance as needed) at the beginning of all technical rehearsals and performance call times to ensure that all sound equipment is working properly.
Props Manager (ages 13+): The Props Master is responsible for managing the props of the show. Performs daily checks at the beginning of all technical rehearsals and performance call times to ensure that all props are is working properly and in place.
Audition, Callbacks, & Casting (How to Sign Up & What to Expect)
How to Audition:
What Are Auditions & Callbacks Like?
The audition process is a fun and integral part of the production! We understand that auditions can feel stressful, but everyone you see is your biggest cheerleader.
- Fill out the form - Here.
- Sign up for an audition slot - Here. (Each audition slot will have space for multiple auditioners. Please come 15 minutes early to ensure you are checked in and have proper paperwork completed.)
- Prepare A Monologue: Please prepare a 1 minute (max) memorized comedic monologue. (student resources to get started) Students will come in one at a time and the panel would like to film the student auditions. These will be run as closed auditions.
What Are Auditions & Callbacks Like?
The audition process is a fun and integral part of the production! We understand that auditions can feel stressful, but everyone you see is your biggest cheerleader.
- WHEN ARRIVING: When you arrive for auditions, you will check in and make sure all your information is in order. You will get your headshot taken and receive any additional information.
- AUDITIONING: For this production, auditions are closed and recorded. The means auditions will go in one at a time, and the audition may be recorded to help the casting process.
- When asked, first please “slate”. This means introduce yourself by name and age, then tell us which monologue selection you have chosen (Title, author, etc.).
- When ready, begin your monologue. When you have completed, take a short pause and then say, “Thank you.”
- CALLBACKS: Callbacks will be requested at the discretion of the Directors. If you are called back, you will receive notice before 11pm on Friday, Jan. 13th. Callbacks will be held on Saturday, Jan. 14th from 9 am-12pm at Oak Grove UMC. You will be notified if you are to attend the entire time, or just a portion thereof. If you are NOT called back, that does not mean you are not getting considered for a part. Being “called back” simply means the directors would like to see you read/perform something specific. For this production, callbacks will consist of a dance, music, and cold readings from the script.
- The Cast List will be sent out via email, and shared on social media, at 6pm on Jan. 15th. Since Imagine Theatre is an education focused organization, we expect that students will take the role they are given.
- The cast size of this show may be capped if more than 15 audition. - Imagine Theatre’s goal to provide an education experience for every student who desires it. With every production we aim to include as many students as possible. Imagine's policy for this production is to cast every eligible student who successfully completes the audition process.
- Imagine Theatre values diversity on our stage and in our theater. In casting, we do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or national or ethnic origin. We aim to cast respectfully and appropriately to all cultures and identities.
Agreements & Health and Safety
Agreements:
By registering/participating in Imagine Theatre courses, students agree to follow all rules and guidance outline in the Imagine Theatre Expectations, Code of Conduct, & Dress Code.
Health & Safety: Imagine Theatre strives to keep everyone within our community safe at all times. Masks are not required at this time. Vaccinations are encouraged but not required. Physical distancing and ventilation measures are still in place where able. Read our Communicable Disease Management Plan Here.
By registering/participating in Imagine Theatre courses, students agree to follow all rules and guidance outline in the Imagine Theatre Expectations, Code of Conduct, & Dress Code.
Health & Safety: Imagine Theatre strives to keep everyone within our community safe at all times. Masks are not required at this time. Vaccinations are encouraged but not required. Physical distancing and ventilation measures are still in place where able. Read our Communicable Disease Management Plan Here.
General Rehearsal, Tech Week, & Production Information
QUESTIONS?
Contact Rose Thoman, Producer of Importance of Being Earnest- roset@imaginetheatre.org
Contact Kim Wallace, Productions Manager- kimw@imaginetheatre.org
Contact Rose Thoman, Producer of Importance of Being Earnest- roset@imaginetheatre.org
Contact Kim Wallace, Productions Manager- kimw@imaginetheatre.org
