THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST

Two amorous young gentlemen, objects of their affection who are in love with the name "Ernest," the world's most formidable aunt, a dotty governess, and a dull-witted country parson--these are perhaps the most feckless, unconsciously witty, and uproarious characters ever to grace a stage. A tour de force of wit and irony, Oscar Wilde's most enduring and influential play enjoys frequent, if not always expert, revival. Witness this BBC recording in which an attempt to mitigate the comedy's age with a contemporary style succeeds only in sucking out much of the energy, personality, and fun. There are still laughs, but for the fullest flavor possible in an audio recording, this reviewer prefers the incomparable 1947 version, with Sir John Gielgud and Dame Edith Evans, re-released in 2005 by Naxos. Y.R. © AudioFile 2007, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/ NOV 07]