What is the truth about Lady Bracknell's unlikely origins? How exactly did she achieve her ascent into society? And what, most importantly, is the grotesquely astonishing secret that she has kept carefully hidden for so many years? All this and much, much more, is revealed in Paul Doust's hilarious, jaw dropping tour de force as the Lady herself. "A brilliant conceit. Paul Doust has out-Stopparded Stoppard" THE PINK PAPER "A plot quite as preposterous as "The Importance" itself; yet it keeps us absorbed through a tale of thwarted love, frustration and heartbreak, unfolded with such restraint and dignity that one eruption of minor violence comes as a shocking jolt" THE TIMES "A Freudian nightmare" THE SCOTSMAN "Is there a medium in the house with the powers to communicate the accolade dear Oscar must surely have ready to drop gently on the shoulders of Mr Doust?" THE STAGE "Funny, touching, above all different - GO!" TIME OUT

Since you’re here…

… we have a small favour to ask. We don't want your money to support a hack's bar bill at Abattoir, but if you have a pound or two spare, we really encourage you to support a good cause. If this review has either helped you discover a gem or avoid a turkey, consider doing some good that will really make a difference.

You can donate to the charity of your choice, but if you're looking for inspiration, there are three charities we really like.

Show me the charities

Mama Biashara
Kate Copstick’s charity, Mama Biashara, works with the poorest and most marginalised people in Kenya. They give grants to set up small, sustainable businesses that bring financial independence and security. That five quid you spend on a large glass of House White? They can save someone’s life with that. And the money for a pair of Air Jordans? Will take four women and their fifteen children away from a man who is raping them and into a new life with a moneymaking business for Mum and happiness for the kids.
Donate to Mama Biashara now

Theatre MAD
The Make A Difference Trust fights HIV & AIDS one stage at a time. Their UK and International grant-making strategy is based on five criteria that raise awareness, educate, and provide care and support for the most vulnerable in society. A host of fundraising events, including Bucket Collections, Late Night Cabarets, West End Eurovision, West End Bares and A West End Christmas continue to raise funds for projects both in the UK and Sub-Saharan Africa.
Donate to Theatre MAD now

Acting For Others
Acting for Others provides financial and emotional support to all theatre workers in times of need through the 14 member charities. During the COVID-19 crisis Acting for Others have raised over £1.7m to support theatre workers affected by the pandemic.
Donate to Acting For Others now