Lismore Theatre Company is launching its 2026 season with a production that promises to surprise audiences and spark conversation.

From 6 to 21 March, the Rochdale Theatre will host The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde, but this will be far from a traditional drawing-room rendition.

Directed by Sharon Brodie and John Rado, the production revisits Wilde’s classic comedy through a contemporary lens, exploring the idea of “The Art of Appearances: Australia’s Upper Class Examined.” While the play famously satirised the hypocrisy of 19th-century British high society, the creative team believes its themes remain sharply relevant today.

When The Importance of Being Earnest first premiered in 1895, it caused outrage, with protesters gathering outside the theatre and members of the upper classes bristling at Wilde’s biting commentary. More than a century later, Lismore Theatre Company is leaning into that original edge, presenting a version that is funny, fast-paced and unafraid to challenge expectations.

Sharon Brodie brings a strong track record with the company, having previously directed sold-out productions including Black Adder 2, David Williamson’s Dead White Males, Daniel Keene’s Life Without Me and Susan Spunner’s Running Up A Dress. She is joined by Artistic Director John Rado, a NIDA-trained director with professional experience across three continents, now bringing his skills to the Lismore stage.

The cast features a mix of well-known Rochdale performers and fresh faces. Familiar names include Jenni Law, Junia Wulf, Vilma Giacomini, Audrey O’Donnell-Parr and Tim Bennett. Newcomers Jason Wallace and Michael Sharmon step into the central roles of Jack (Earnest) and Algernon.

Vilma Giacomini, who has been part of the LTC family for 20 years, says audiences can expect something visually striking and full of energy.

“It is a fabulous production,” she said. “The set and clothing is so unexpected it will be enticing for audiences and they can discover the characters and the real meaning of this story. The actors are amazing and the production team, fantastic, it is a must see!”

For Jason Wallace, this marks his first production with Lismore Theatre Company.

“I would encourage people to come see this show as it is incredibly funny and a great play to see for theatre goers even if it’s your first show,” he said.

As Lismore continues to rebuild and strengthen its cultural life, community theatre remains a vital part of the city’s creative identity. With a bold vision, experienced direction and a passionate local cast, the 2026 season opener is set to remind audiences why live theatre still has the power to provoke, entertain and bring people together.

Performances run from 6 to 21 March at the Rochdale Theatre. Tickets are available now via TryBooking, and locals are encouraged to book early to avoid disappointment.