An Ideal Husband at the Gate Theatre

Oscar Wilde wrote An Ideal Husband in 1895, but the story of a politician whose career is threatened when a past indiscretion resurfaces could have been written yesterday. The Gate Theatre, which has a long and celebrated history with Wilde’s work, is the perfect home for this production.

What to Expect

Sir Robert Chiltern is a model of public virtue - until a scheming socialite threatens to expose a secret from his past. His wife idolises him. His best friend is the effortlessly witty Lord Goring. What follows is Wilde at his sharpest: a drawing-room comedy that’s also a serious examination of morality, reputation, and the gap between who we are and who we pretend to be.

The dialogue is vintage Wilde - every line lands, every exchange crackles. The Gate’s intimate space means you catch every raised eyebrow and loaded pause. This is one of Wilde’s most underrated plays, and in the right hands it’s every bit as entertaining as The Importance of Being Earnest.

Good to Know

• Opens May 8, 2026
• All tickets include a €1.50 building upkeep levy
• The Gate bar and cafe are open before shows and during intervals
• Box Office: +353 1 874 4045

Getting There

The Gate Theatre is on Cavendish Row at the top of O’Connell Street. Luas Abbey Street stop on the Red Line is five minutes. Connolly Station is 10 minutes on foot.