Tipping Point Theatre Brings Oscar Wilde's Brand of Humor to Northville

Audiences at the 's latest production, , will find themselves laughing and even interacting with the actors.

It is the first play that Tipping Point director James Kuhl has appeared in since he took on the position three years ago, he said. It is directed by Julie Glander.

The Oscar Wilde play is set in the early 1920s and opens with actor Peter Prouty, playing the role of Algernon. His character is the over-indulgent London friend of the protagonist, John Worthington. Kuhl plays the lead role, of a country gentleman who escapes to the city under the name of "Ernest." He tells his friends in the country that Ernest is his wayward brother, to whom he must tend in London. This later leads to a comedic bout of misunderstandings about John's identity.

John falls for Algernon's cousin, Gwendolen, played by Hallie Bard, and proposes to marry her. Meanwhile, Algernon learns of John's ward in the country, the young Cecily Cardew. She is played by Christina Flynn. Algernon heads out to John's country home where he claims to be John's brother Ernest. Soon after, Algernon professes his love for Cecily.

As the plot progresses – after a series of colorfully witty exchanges and mishaps – John and Algernon come to a resolution with their ladies. And the play ends with a twist about John's identity, and plenty of dancing.

A unique plus to this play is the level of audience interaction it offers.

"It typically isn't an interactive kind of play," Kuhl said. The "intimacy" of the Tipping Point's space allows for the actors to speak with audience members, who are sitting one step away. The actors also mingle in the crowd during the show.

"It allows our audience to experience the play in a different way," he said.

That's part of what he said hopes the appeal is – the familiarity of the Oscar Wilde tale in a new way.

"The play itself is one of my favorites," Kuhl said. "People are familiar with it."

For Kuhl, who has his MFA in acting from Wayne State University, it's also an opportunity to share his love of the stage with those who know him as the Tipping Point's director.

"I hope (the audience) enjoys the show and experience The Importance of Being Earnest in a different way," he said.

The play is at the Tipping Point through Dec. 18. Tickets are $28-$30 adults and $26-$28 students and senior citizens.