THEATRE CHOICE: Opening this week

AUGUSTINE'S OAK

Globe, SE1 (0171 401 9919) previews from Fri, opens 12 Aug to 24 Sept The first new play written for the Globe by the theatre's writer in residence, Peter Oswald. It tells the story of the mission of St Augustine to convert the pagan English.

THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST

Haymarket, SW1 (0171 930 8800) opens Wed, booking to Nov

Wilde's comedy transfers from Chichester, with Patricia Routledge as the indomitable Lady Bracknell.

TIMON OF ATHENS

RSC, Stratford (01789 403 403) previews from Sat, opens 24 Aug, to 9 Oct

Michael Pennington takes on the title role in Shakespeare's little-known tragedy.