Around 80,000 people changed their name by deed poll last year, and whereas in the 19th century it was not so prevalent, Oscar Wilde’s much-loved masterpiece The Importance of Being Earnest features two bachelor friends who both took on a pseudonym to court the ladies they desired.

DOT Productions’ tour of the play arrives in St Albans on Friday July 15 for a performance at Maltings Arts Theatre. Tickets are £15, £12 for concessions, and are available from the box office number on 0333 666 3366.