Unleashing creativity from the page - Russell Grant leads exclusive play reading workshop on a theatre classic

To mark the 130th anniversary of the controversial and legendary playwright Oscar Wilde and his final play, The Importance of Being Earnest, join actor and theatre director, Russell Grant, in Blackpool, for a special play reading workshop. Wilde, whose sharp wit and literary genius shaped the landscape of English theatre, visited Blackpool in 1883.

Just over a decade later, in February 1895, The Importance of Being Earnest, premiered at the St. James Theatre in London. This timeless comedy of manners, renowned for its razor-sharp wit and satirical edge, continues to captivate audiences worldwide, celebrating Wilde’s timeless brilliance.

Gyles Brandreth, Honorary President of The Oscar Wilde Society, describes the play as “the best play written in English in the entire nineteenth century,” and this 130th anniversary is an occasion to celebrate Wilde's legacy.

In partnership with Showtown, Blackpool’s museum of fun and entertainment, Russell Grant as founder of CITCOM (Casting in the Community), will lead this special event at Blackpool Central Library, taking on the role of Lady Bracknell.  He will lead the reading of selected excerpts from Wilde’s original iconic three-act play and participants will have the chance to join in or simply enjoy as part of the audience. Between the readings, there will be intervals offering hot food to fuel the creativity and conversation.

Russell Grant has been in the world of showbiz and theatre for over 60 years, treading the boards from the age of 10. An experienced thespian he's been Puck in Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream; Teen Angel in Grease and the narrator in the Rocky Horror Picture Show. He's appeared with Tommy Steele in Hans Christian Anderson took over from Michael Crawford as the wizard in The Wizard of Oz at the London Palladium, directly after appearing in Strictly Come Dancing. He was Prince Chululongkorn in Rodgers and Hammerstein's The King and I, toured in Kings Rhapsody by Ivor Novello and played Edna in Hairspray, which he admits to being his favourite role.

Kerry Vasiliou, Learning and Engagement Manager at Showtown says; “We are very excited to work with such a talented and experienced theatre producer on this masterclass opportunity. Russell is passionate about providing high-quality cultural experiences in his adopted town.”

Don’t miss this opportunity to pay tribute to one of the most influential playwrights in history, with Russell Grant bringing Lady Bracknell to life in a truly memorable reading experience of a comedy classic that never gets old!

Event Details: Play Reading Workshop with Russell Grant
Date: Tuesday 11 February, 2025
Location: Blackpool Central Library, Queen St, FY1 1PX
Time: 6.30pm – 9.30pm (Doors 6pm)

Tickets:

Adult – play reader - £12*

Adult – audience member only - £10*

*Ticket includes refreshments and hot food (vegan friendly).

For more information and to book tickets, visit: www.showtownblackpool.co.uk