Olly Alexander Leads West End Transfer of National Theatre’s Earnest

The National Theatre's acclaimed production of Oscar Wilde's "The Importance of Being Earnest" is transferring to the West End with a limited run at the Noël Coward Theatre from September 18, 2025, through January 10, 2026. Olly Alexander, known for his music career with Years & Years and his acting in Channel 4's "It's a Sin," will star as Algernon Moncrieff, taking over the role from Ncuti Gatwa who originally played it in 2024. Directed by Max Webster, the production is praised for its flamboyant and contemporary reimagining of Wilde's classic comedy, honoring Wilde's legacy as a trailblazing queer artist and literary icon. The creative team aimed to celebrate Wilde’s wit and imaginative freedom, with Alexander expressing excitement and pride in embodying a character from Wilde’s most beloved play. This West End transfer marks a significant theatrical return for Alexander, who has previously performed on the same stage, while the production continues to receive strong audience and critical acclaim. Additional casting details have yet to be announced.