As the College of DuPage continues its theatre season, audiences are invited to step into a world of wit, romance and lively comedy with its production of The Importance of Being Earnest. The classic play by Oscar Wilde follows a series of misunderstandings, double identities and relationships that create both humorous situations and heartfelt moments between the characters. As the second and third week of shows evolve, the actors and director fill in the behind the scenes of the production.
After the first week of performances, the cast and crew are beginning to settle into the rhythm of the show while learning what audiences enjoy most. For many of the actors, the first performances brought a mix of nerves and excitement as they finally shared the production with a live audience.
Nick Washington, who plays Jack Worthing, said that the first week helped him understand how audiences connect with the show.
“I was nervous about what people were going to react to,” Washington said. “But now, I like seeing what they enjoy in the show and really understanding the different nuances that come through.”
For the actors, each performance brings something new. Jamiya Haynes, who plays Cecily Cardew, said moving into the second week of performances requires finding fresh motivation and energy.
“When you get into the second and third week of shows, you have to find your artistic motivation again,” Haynes said. “You’re doing it over and over, so you look for new discoveries in the show and listen to the audience. As a character, you almost become the audience because the character doesn’t know what’s going to happen.”
Before the curtain rises, the cast members each have their own rituals to prepare for the stage. The entire cast begins with warm-ups together, reflecting the ensemble-focused nature of the group. Nate Rodriguez, who plays Algernon Moncrief, said music and caffeine are key parts of his routine.
“We do warm-ups together because we’re a really ensemble-heavy group,” he said. “I also listen to music that my characters would probably listen to, and caffeine definitely helps.”
Despite their different routines, the cast shares a common goal: to entertain the audience. The director, Daniel Millhouse said his main goal was to see the audience laugh and leave feeling weightless.
“We want people to leave happy,” Millhouse said. “The show is meant to be fun and fluffy- like whipped cream. It’s really about love and friendship.”
The actors also draw inspiration from real life and pop culture to shape their performances. Haynes said she listens to music from period-inspired shows to better understand the mindset of her character.
“I listen to ‘Bridgerton’ songs and the ‘Queen Charlotte’ soundtrack to get into that regency mindset,” she said. “Cecily is always in her head and in her diary with a wild imagination, so I bring some of my childhood self into the character.”
Behind the scenes, the crew works just as hard to keep the production running smoothly. Stage manager Olivia Delgado said her pre-show routine is a process of preparation and focus.
“Before the show, I go through checklists, set things up and make repairs if needed,” Delgado said. “It’s about getting into work mode.”
As performances continue, the cast and crew hope audiences will enjoy the humor, relationships and lively energy that make the production so memorable. With its mix of comedy, charm and strong performances, the show offers a chance for audiences to relax, laugh and experience the magic of live theater. Their final week of shows runs until March 22. Tickets can be ordered online at the MAC’s website or at the Box Office before the show for $16 for students and $18 for adults.
