SUMMER starts in Earnest at Ormesby with a performance of the Oscar Wilde classic The Importance of Being Earnest.The comedy of manners from the pen of the flamboyant artist is being staged by the Rain or Shine Theatre Company - who tour stately homes as well as village halls - in the grounds of Ormesby Village Centre on July 5.

SUMMER starts in Earnest at Ormesby with a performance of the Oscar Wilde classic The Importance of Being Earnest.

The comedy of manners from the pen of the flamboyant artist is being staged by the Rain or Shine Theatre Company - who tour stately homes as well as village halls - in the grounds of Ormesby Village Centre on July 5.

Organisers are hoping for a balmy summer evening to help picnickers enjoy the grassy setting - but have weathered much worse in the last few years.

The Friends of St Margaret's Church who are behind the event are billing it as: “An evening of engaging entertainment performing one of the greatest comedies of all time, Oscar Wilde's classic comedy of manners, morals and morality The Importance of Being Earnest.

“When two Victorian gentlemen assume the name of Ernest, to win the affections of two ladies determined to marry a man of that name, the scene is set for Oscar Wilde's classic comedy of manners and triviality.

“We invite you into the world of handbags, perambulators, cucumber sandwiches, muffins, butlers, the English upper class, and of course, that theatrical tour de force - Lady Bracknell!

“Bring your own banquet to eat in the grounds before the performance, a seat to sit on and warm clothing to guard against whatever the weather might throw at us. Doors open at 6pm for a 7.30pm performance.”

Tickets priced �12 and �6 are available from (01493) 730178 or (01493) 731438.