Yvonne Arnaud Theatre – until 7th November 2026
Reviewed by Heather Chalkley
4****
Oscar Wilde’s classic gothic tale depicting the dangers of prioritising beauty and indulgence over conscience and integrity, is well adapted for the stage by director Sean Aydon.
Jack Crumlin (Dorian Gray) carries the persona of youth in his frame and tone, taking you on a journey into decadence and immorality. Gray (Crumlin) is influenced by the adoration and infatuation of the people around him, selling his soul in exchange for eternal youth, leaving a trail of bodies in his wake.
Mark Hawkins (Lord Henry Wotton) gives you the shivers in his delivery of a jaded cynic that enjoys manipulating Dorian, drawing him further and further into a life of vice and addiction.
Mark Oxtoby (Basil Hallward) offers you contrast in his bewilderment and honest love of Dorian. Oxtoby (Hallward) holds his own amongst the strong characters of his fellow thespians, playing a thwarted man who cannot reconcile what he has done.
This is a complex script which the whole cast grasps and delivers with eloquence and stature. Ayesha Griffiths exemplifies this in the two distinctly different characters of Catherine Vane and Dr Ellen Campbell. The cast are completely present throughout the performance.
The choice of scenery and lighting is interesting, with a slopping sheet of glass windows covered in filth, making a bold statement. The lighting is darkly gothic, sometimes a little too dark and then accentuated by a piercing red light that blinds the audience. It is confusing and distracting.
This does not detract from the impact of the piece, sending a clear message to be careful what you wish for!