Vivid Characters Infuse 'Earnest'
Theater review
By GENE WARECH

Michael Gotch and Kandis Chappell in "The Importance of Being Earnest" at South Coast Repertory through March 9.

The beauty of this production of Oscar Wilde's masterful comedy is the individuality and well thought out characterizations that not only do not stand in the way of the brash aphorisms but actually support their comic effect. Wilde, thank goodness, managed to finish this work barely before the beginning of his disastrous fall from grace. That was 113 years ago and the comedy is as fresh, the characters as vivid, and the convoluted paths of love as giddy as ever.

Two young men, flighty playful Michael Gotch and sober, by the books Tommy Schrider chase two young women, fantasy-filled Elise Hunt and controlling Christine Marie Brown, respectively and often respectfully. Gotch's character is a Wilde stand-in, given to spinning aphorisms at the drop of a contradiction or a tough spot or just for fun. Sometimes they hit home with such insight that the audience gasps with delight. Several times, Schrider's character is compelled to chide Gotch for excessive ridiculousness.

The two young women are perfect matches for their beaus. Hunt has dreamed up the romance and will simply not be denied having her diary come true. Brown has a will power in matters romantic second only to her monumentally formidable mother (Kandis Chappell) who will have her daughter turn out well by hook, crook, or simply obedience.

Chappell plays cleanly with such undeniable fervor that she bends all to her sway, including the awe inspiring lines about semi-recumbent suitors, careless foundlings, and disreputable handbags. No wonder her daughter is growing up in her image.

As a giddy, blushing older pair, Amelia White and Richard Doyle findthe way, accidentally but inevitably, into their own kind of love. Doyle is especially frothy. John-David Keller creates two butlers as utter opposites; one all knowing and slyly correct, the other sweetly bustling.

As usual, the physical production is impeccable. When the elements of a production line up so unerringly, then the director, Warren Shook, must get a good deal of credit.

Through March 9 at 655 Town Center Dr. in Costa Mesa. For tickets and info, browse SCR.org or call 714-708-5555.

Gene Warech writes about theatre and opera for Orange County and Los Angeles newspapers, including six years at the Coastline News and now the Independent. Gene is a member of the Los Angeles (and Orange County) Drama Critic's Circle.