The Importance of Being Earnest (OMT)

I believe the writer referred to this as 'a trivial play for serious people' (or was it the other way around?). Anyway, despite the fact that it is one of the most oft-performed plays in the English-speaking world, this (last Saturday) is the first time I have ever seen it live on stage, so I may be a bit ingenuous in my remarks. I was very imressed with the design aspects of this production. No great surprise really, considering the designer (also the director) is, I understand, a practising architect. The peacock blind, the stark white minimalist set and the pastel lighting effects all contributed to the stylishness (and authenticity) of the production, notwithstanding the awkward size and shape of the Old Mill stage. The acting too was polished and engaging. All roles were well cast, in terms of both stagecraft skills and physical appearance. There was also good 'chemistry' between the couples, especially Algernon and Cecily and Lady Bracknell received a well-deserved ovation on at least one of her sweeping exits on the night. One small quibble. I'm no lighting expert, but if (as happened once or twice) an actor has an inappropriate shadow over their face, then it is usually because either they or the lights are not in their correct position. If this is a venue issue, perhaps the Old Mill should invest in a follow-spot? Oh yes - bar facilities were excellent this time!