Stephen Fry Leads Star-Studded Cast in National Theatre’s West End Transfer of The Importance of Being Earnest
As rehearsals commence, the National Theatre has announced the full cast for its highly anticipated West End transfer of Oscar Wilde’s classic comedy The Importance of Being Earnest, set to run at the Noël Coward Theatre from 18 September 2025 until 10 January 2026.
The production boasts an impressive ensemble, including Olly Alexander as Algernon Moncrieff, Nathan Stewart-Jarrett as Jack Worthing, Hugh Dennis as Rev. Canon Chasuble, and Shobna Gulati as Miss Prism. Kitty Hawthorne takes on the role of Gwendolen Fairfax, with Jessica Whitehurst as Cecily Cardew and Hayley Carmichael doubling as Merriman/Lane. Supporting roles and understudies are filled by Jasmine Kerr, Sam Liu, Gillian McCafferty, Elliot Pritchard, and Liv Spencer.
However, it is Stephen Fry who clearly emerges as the standout in this cast, taking on the iconic role of Lady Bracknell. His presence promises to bring both gravitas and wit to Wilde’s sparkling comedy, which has already been hailed as a “bold and brash Wilde reboot” by The Times and a “sparkling new production” by the Daily Mail.
Directed by Max Webster, known for his acclaimed productions of Macbeth and Life of Pi, this exuberant reinterpretation of Wilde’s work first premiered at the National Theatre’s Lyttelton stage from November 2024 to January 2025 to widespread critical acclaim. The production combines flamboyance and sharp humour, deftly navigating the tangled double lives of Jack and Algernon as they try to impress their love interests under false pretences.
The West End run will feature performances Monday to Saturday, with evening shows at 7pm and matinees on Thursdays and Saturdays. Accessibility performances, including captioned, audio described, and BSL interpreted shows, will also be available.
Tickets start from £25, with over 20,000 priced under £30 to encourage broad access. This production is a co-production between the National Theatre and Sonia Friedman Productions, ensuring a high standard of theatrical excellence.
For theatre-goers keen to experience a fresh, lively take on Wilde’s satire—and to witness Stephen Fry in one of his most celebrated roles—The Importance of Being Earnest promises to be a highlight of the 2025 West End season.
Dates: Thursday 18 September 2025 – Saturday 10 January 2026
Website: www.EarnestOnStage.com
Address: Noël Coward Theatre, St Martin’s Lane, London, WC2N 4AU
Elena Leo is the Culture & Lifestyle Editor of Ikon London Magazine.
