An imaginary interview with Playwright Oscar Wilde

The cast was deep into rehearsals of "The Importance of Being Earnest". I was following along with the script when I thought I heard an unknown voice chuckling at the back of the BeeKay Theatre.

I turned around, then quickly back again, not wanting to believe what I was imagining. I'd read all about our famous playwright's, love for the paranormal, but was Oscar's ghost now actually seated at the back of the BeeKay?

I sipped on my extra strong latte, then turned around again. Oscar was still there. I had to at least try to interview him, right? I mean how often can someone obtain a theatrical critique from a dead playwright?

Carefully, I approached, fearing Oscar might vanish before I had the chance to speak with him.

"Mr. Wilde," I asked, "forgive me for interrupting, but you seem to be enjoying this particular rehearsal of your play?"

Oscar's shadow seemed startled at first, but then in his characteristic cool, he spoke, "I'm surprised you noticed me. I don't get many interviews these days."

"Well sir, I'm rather startled myself, but while I'm still picturing you, would you mind sharing your opinion of how we're doing with your cherished Earnest? It would mean so much to us."

"As a matter of fact," said Oscar, "when rumor in the outer world had it that your rehearsals were suggesting a most admirable show I, of course, had to sit in and see for myself, and I must say, I am not at all disappointed."

Can you believe it? Oscar Wilde! Loving our production of his play?

"This is thrilling Mr. Wilde!" I continued gingerly. "May I now ask if..."

"Now, now," Oscar said abruptly. "You mustn't get greedy, my friend. I'll be sitting in on your rehearsals from time to time, and if this show continues to shine, I might just pay you a visit on opening night."

"No promises, of course," Oscar said, "but I might just share little nuances about Earnest during the performance. Just little facts here and there that might intrigue your audience. Do you think your Director, Kenny Chugg would like that?"

"Oh yes!" I exclaimed, without knowing how Mr. Chugg might respond.

"All right then," said Oscar, "let's hope we meet again, and please do tell everyone to keep up the good work."

With that, Oscar vanished. For now, we will wait excitedly for Earnest's opening night at the BeeKay.

The show runs from Friday, Feb. 9 through Sunday, Feb. 25, 2018. Dates, times and tickets available online at http://www.tctonstage.com, and can also be purchased at the Tehachapi Treasure Trove or Tehachapi Furniture. Adults $15, Children 12 and under are $8. AT THE DOOR ONLY SPECIAL: $3 discount to active-duty military and seniors 60 and over. Please, no children under 5 years of age. The BeeKay Theatre is located at 110 South Green Street, Tehachapi, Calif.

Dorothy McReynolds co-chairs publicity along with Shannon Loftus for the Tehachapi Community Theatre.