By Cecelia Otis

If you love theater and are looking for a great way to spend some time outside this fall, there is an exciting production of The Importance of Being Earnest taking place at the Doherty Pocket Park in downtown Scranton as part of the 2025 Scranton Fringe Festival.  

This play was written by Oscar Wilde, who also wrote The Portrait of Dorian Gray which you may be familiar with, and chronicles a comedic story of deception, love, and, of course, tea! Usually, most people are used to seeing plays or musicals in a theatre, but with the performances being outside, the audience will experience the comfort and beauty of the autumnal outdoors while actually learning the importance of being earnest.

In an interview with the director of the production, Cate McDonald, she provided more information about her take on the show and what choices she made as a director to highlight the creative and fun tone of Wilde’s play. She discussed the costuming, staging, and overall experience she has had so far with the performance and the actors. 

What was your vision for The Importance of Being Earnest? Any fresh new takes on the story or characterizations?

                     “Oscar Wilde is flamboyant and fun, and I wanted to truly showcase that in this version. We are using modern dress in conjunction with the classic language to make a colorful, joyful, and exciting version of the show. We want the audience to feel like they are looking in on an English tea party and feel like guests themselves.”

Were there any challenges staging this period piece outdoors? What about any joys?

                    “The cast is filled to the brim with experienced talent always looking for new and exciting challenges, and I was excited to take this on with them. Utilizing minimal sets and entrances, we are able to focus on the dynamics of the actors, their chemistry, and the joy of the material. Even the challenges have allowed us to create moments and opportunities we may not have found otherwise.”

Why should audiences experience this version of The Importance of Being Earnest? What can they expect?

     Audiences should expect to have their funny bones positively tickled while the cast delights them in a gorgeous outdoor setting complete with an, immersive tea party, leaving every attendee absolutely chuffed.”

The play performances will be included on the map for October’s First Friday weekend, and, with it taking place at the Doherty Pocket Park, there will be many things to do before the play begins. The park is within walking distance from the square, so you can go get something to eat or before the show and then catch another Scranton Fringe Festival production (or two) afterward! The Importance of Being Earnest. There will also be refreshments available for purchase at and during the performance that are also inspired by an English garden party, i.e. tea, coffee, cakes, etc.

With the performance, purchasable refreshments, and a cozy outdoor setting, this is one event you won’t wanna miss! The performance is free for people of all ages, but donations to the Scranton Fringe Festival are definitely welcome and appreciated. Mark your calendars for October 3rd and 4th, 2025, and come see The Importance of Being Earnest! 

Showtimes are at 6 p.m. on both dates, with an additional show at 2 p.m. on October 4th.