Acton Actor Takes Leading Role in 'An Ideal Husband'

Ian Dowell has played a lot of roles in his lifetime.

From husband to father of twins to being a self-employed database consultant for FileMaker, he's done it all.

But now, the Acton actor is preparing to play the lead role in the Cannon Theatre of Littleton production of "An Ideal Husband."

Dowell will play Lord Arthur Goring in Oscar Wilde's witty drama.

"On the surface he seems very shallow; only concerned with wit and fashion," Dowell said of the main character. "But underneath, he truly cares about others."

Dowell, who began acting in high school, said he was drawn to the show after hearing about the director.

"I had heard good things about (Tatiana Ivan)," he said. "The production was with a company with which I had not yet worked. I had enjoyed doing Wilde's "The Importance of Being Earnest" years ago, and I seem to do well in British comedy."

All performances will take place at The Cannon Theatre on 410 Great Road in Littleton. Show dates are March 15, 16, 22, 23, 29, 30; and April 4, 5, 6 at 7:30 p.m. There will be a matinee on March 23 at 1 p.m.
 
ABOUT AN IDEAL HUSBAND

Political intrigue, financial fraud and blackmail: just another 24 hours in the 1890s. Sir Robert Chiltern is a rising political star in London society, a man with a genuinely good heart but a soft spot for power. When a mysterious woman shows up on his doorstep with a questionable business proposition, his carefully crafted world comes to a halt - and his wife's unwavering love and devotion are put to the test. After more than a century, Oscar Wilde's "An Ideal Husband" continues to examine issues that are as contemporary as ever: morality, love and forgiveness. What happens to the ideals we hold to our loved ones and, indeed, ourselves? Are you an ideal?