Students impress with Wilde performance

The new Waterford College of Further Education Theatre Studies class staged the 'Importance of Being Earnest' at Garter Lane recently to much critical acclaim.

Supported by Waterford College of Further Education and by WWETB, the class performed a shortened version of the well-loved classic play written by Oscar Wilde.

This is the first time in 25 years that Waterford College of Further Education has run a theatre course and the cast of young players did not disappoint, providing stellar performances that earned two standing ovations.

The production featured a unique 1950s twist, as audiences watched in awe as Algernon was “cruisin’ for a bruisin” and as the “ginchiest” girls went head-to-head for the infamous Mr. Ernest Worthing.

Course creator and Head of Arts and Media at WCFE, Michelle Daly, said that the talent of the cast and the support available from staff at WCFE made it the huge success it was: "I knew from very early on having met the students that we could be ambitious and plan for Garter Lane as the stage for this production."

“Noreen Reilly, Principal of WCFE, supported my idea, and the staff of WCFE rallied to provide the support and education necessary to create a professional production," she said.

"I would also like to thank Sile, Derek, and Richard ('Lippy') from Garter Lane, who were a joy to work with and understood our particular vision," she added. 

Michelle went on to comment: "It's a dream come true for me personally, too, to see theatre studies back at WCFE and to take the performance outside of the college for the first time. "

Most of the performers are already cast in other upcoming performances as well as progressing onto third level theatre based courses around the country.