The fall of Oscar Wilde

The University of Idaho Department of Theatre Arts will present “Gross Indecency: The Three Trials of Oscar Wilde” by Moisés Kaufman from April 23 through May 2.

Drawing from actual trial documents, newspaper accounts and writings of the key characters, the virtual play covers the fall of the celebrated playwright and wit, from the apex of Victorian British society into humiliation and ruin. The three trials center around the accusations of “gross indecency” given to anyone exhibiting homosexual activity, which was illegal in the United Kingdom in the 19th century.

“Gross Indecency” introduces more than 40 characters, from George Bernard Shaw to Queen Victoria, with a cast of actors from the College of Letters, Arts and Social Sciences and Brian Tibayan, a theater arts alumnus.

“This event shows the staining power of Puritanistic attitudes when it comes to trying to determine what is moral and immoral for everyone," director and master of UI fine arts candidate Ricky Kimball said.

The production contains adult subject matter and may not be suitable for young children.

Admission is $10 for individuals, $20 for a group pass and free for UI students. Matinees are “pay what you can.”

Times, dates and registration links:

6 p.m. April 23, 24, 30 and May 1, https://www.uidaho.edu/6pmgrossindecency; and 2 p.m. April 24, 25 and May 1 and 2, https://www.uidaho.edu/2pmgrossindecency.