The Importance of Being Oscar
Presented by Original Theatre Productions Ltd
The Importance of Being Oscar Fri 12 – Sat 13 Jun 2026 Past event
- Running time 1 hour 50 minutes, including an interval
- Age Guidance 12+
- Venue New Wolsey Theatre, Civic Drive, Ipswich, IP1 2AS
Step into the glittering, scandalous, witty world of Oscar Wilde.
Oscar Wilde became an icon on his death.
But the life he lived was far more dramatic than anything he ever wrote.
This funny and fiercely moving show, features a tour de force central performance from Alastair Whatley, hailed as ★★★★★ “truly magnificent…phenomenal to watch” (Theatre and Tonic).
Oscar, his rise and fall, his glory and his devastation, is conjured back to life through his own words and those of his fiercest champion, the fabled Irish writer Micheál Mac Liammóir.
We meet the man who lived and loved without compromise, whilst creating some of the most famous – and famously funny – plays still adored by millions today.
Experience Oscar as you’ve never seen him before – real, raw, defiant.
This legendary play helped redefine our attitudes and appreciation of a man whose life became his work of art and is returning for a limited UK tour ahead of a London run.
Directed by Michael Fentiman (Amelie, Jekyll & Hyde, The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe) and produced by the Olivier nominated Original Theatre (Being Mr Wickham, The Interview, Birdsong).
Production Images – Credit Marc Brenner Go to slide 1 Go to slide 2 Go to slide 3
“Captivating… A mesmerising one-man journey through Oscar Wilde’s brilliant life and works”
5 Stars
Broadway World
“An elegant and electrifying revival”
5 Stars
The Spy in the Stalls
“Phenomenal… Alastair Whatley is truly magnificent as Wilde”
5 Stars
Theatre and Tonic
“An evening of unmissable magic”
5 Stars
Plays to See
“Powerful”
4 Stars
The Arts Desk
“An absolute delight… A whirlwind tour through the life of a literary icon”
4 Stars
A Youngish Perspective
“A beautiful production – intimate and utterly compelling”
Gyles Brandreth
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Venue: New Wolsey Theatre, Civic Drive, Ipswich, Suffolk IP1 2AS.
Read more on the New Wolsey Theatre website
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New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich
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About New Wolsey Theatre
The New Wolsey Theatre is one of Suffolk’s leading producing theatres, located in the heart of Ipswich. Renowned for its award-winning productions, innovative performances and commitment to accessible theatre, the venue attracts visitors from across East Anglia and beyond.
From drama, comedy and musicals to family shows, community productions and nationally acclaimed touring performances, the New Wolsey Theatre offers a diverse programme of entertainment throughout the year. The theatre is particularly well known for its celebrated annual rock ‘n’ roll pantomime, which has become a highlight of the Ipswich events calendar.
Upcoming Events at New Wolsey Theatre
Browse the latest events taking place at New Wolsey Theatre above. New performances and productions are added regularly, making it one of the best places in Suffolk to experience live entertainment, theatre and cultural events.
Getting to New Wolsey Theatre
📍 Address:
New Wolsey Theatre
Civic Drive
Ipswich
Suffolk
IP1 2AS
Located close to Ipswich town centre, the theatre is within easy walking distance of shops, restaurants and transport links. Several public car parks are available nearby, and Ipswich railway station is approximately a 15-minute walk away.
Why Visit New Wolsey Theatre?
✅ Award-winning producing theatre
✅ Home of the famous Rock ‘n’ Roll Pantomime
✅ Family-friendly performances and events
✅ Comedy, drama, musicals and live entertainment
✅ Accessible venue with inclusive performances
✅ Central Ipswich location with excellent transport links
Accessibility
The New Wolsey Theatre is committed to making theatre accessible to everyone and regularly offers captioned, audio-described, relaxed and British Sign Language interpreted performances. Visitors are encouraged to check individual event listings for accessibility information.
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Looking for more things to do in Ipswich? Explore our full events calendar to discover live music, comedy, theatre productions, festivals, family attractions and special events taking place across Ipswich and Suffolk.
New Wolsey Theatre
Venue address: Civic Drive, Ipswich, Suffolk IP1 2AS
New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich About New Wolsey Theatre The New Wolsey Theatre is one of Suffolk's leading producing theatres, located in the heart of Ipswich. Renowned for its award-winning productions, innovative performances and commitment to accessible theatre, the venue attracts visitors from across East Anglia and beyond. From drama, comedy and musicals to family shows, community productions and nationally acclaimed touring performances, the New Wolsey…
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