Wilmington College Theatre Is Going Wilde

WILMINGTON, Ohio (February 2, 2026)—Wilmington College Theatre will present Oscar Wilde’s celebrated play, The Importance of Being Earnest, on Feb. 26, 27, 28, at 7:30 p.m., in Heiland Theatre in Boyd Cultural Arts Center.

The classic play is a satirical comedy that mocks Victorian social conventions, although some ring as true today as they did in the 19 th century. The story focuses on two men, Jack and Algernon, who both create false identities to escape from their societal obligations. Two women, Gwendolyn and Cecily, have fallen for these imaginary personas, both of whom go by the name of “Ernest.” The men tell a series of lies to try to keep up their illusions, and hilarious misunderstandings ensue. Witticisms, wordplay, and aphorisms are the comedic highlights of Wilde’s masterpiece.

Devon Snyder will take on the role of Jack Worthing with Nathyn Fulton as Algernon Moncrieff. Emma Schnecker and Carlie McCoy will play the women they love, Gwendolyn Fairfax and Cecily Cardew. The role of the formidable matriarch Lady Bracknell will be portrayed by Ollie Basta. Makayla Thomason will play Miss Prism, and Teddy Murphy will play Dr. Chasuble. The roles of the servants, Lane and Merriman, will be played by Fiona Powell and Otto Cipollini, with a cameo by alumnus Ken Lydy as Gribsby.

Bryan Wallingford is directing The Importance of Being Earnest with scenic and lighting design by Jason Burgess. The production team also includes Becky Haines on sound design, costuming by Tara Lydy, and Bekah Wall handling the program and publicity. WC student Elaine Groves is the production’s stage manager, and the set will be constructed by College students under the management of Linda Mead.

Reservations are available exclusively at <wc.booktix.com>. Tickets go on sale at 9 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 2. Tickets are $17. Each Wilmington College student with a student ID will have one complimentary ticket. Those with questions or needing assistance ordering tickets should call the Theatre Box Office weekdays, from 9 a.m. to noon, at 937.481.2267.