Doctor Who actor Ncuti Gatwa’s new stage revival of The Importance of Being Earnest has secured a UK cinema release date for next year.
The star is poised to feature in the Oscar Wilde play at the National Theatre for a solid two months starting from November 20.
Following the show’s conclusion in January, it has been confirmed that a filmed version will grace cinemas on February 20 as part of National Theatre Live.
The stage production revolves around the main characters Jack (played by Hugh Skinner) and his mate Algy (Ncuti) who find themselves entangled in a web of deceit after assuming false identities to woo two women.
Joining Ncuti and Hugh in the cast are fellow Doctor Who actors Sharon D Clarke and Ronke Adekoluejo, along with Little Women actress Eliza Scanlen, reports the Mirror.
The play is directed by theatre maestro Max Webster, known for his work on stage adaptations of Macbeth, Life of Pi and To Kill A Mockingbird.
Ncuti made his first appearance as the 15th doctor during last year’s Christmas special, instantly resonating with viewers.
He was accompanied by his new sidekick Ruby Sunday (Millie Gibson) as they embarked on a fresh chapter of the show.
The duo returned earlier this year for their inaugural full series of eight episodes for the 14th series.
They have already shot another Christmas special set to broadcast on Christmas Day this year, where they will be joined by a new companion, Belinda Chandra (Varada Sethu). In addition to the 2025 series already being in the can, the future of the show hangs in the balance.
Creator Russell T Davies opened up to Radio Times, affirming: “I’m working on the fourth script now for season three. It’s not actually commissioned, that’s still up in the air.”
He added a cautious note: “But that’s the same for every TV programme. I shouldn’t say we’re confident, because that’s asking for a fall, but we’re very confident, to be honest. And we’ll just keep going.”
The Importance of Being Earnest will play at the National Theatre from November 20. The filmed version will air in UK cinemas three months later on February 20.
