The sheer pace and energy of Oscar Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray, currently at the Capitol Horsham, has you on the edge of your seat from the start to the spine-chilling dramatic finish.
The action moves speedily but smoothly from scene to scene and this, together with haunting musical effects and dramatic lighting, at times made this appear to be watching a film rather than a live play. It was that good.
Tilted Wig Productions cast Jonathan Wrather, known for his roles on both stage and screen, taking the part of the rogue Lord Henry Wotton. Jonathan is best known to audiences recently for playing the controversial Pierce Harris in ITV’s Emmerdale for two years. Other notable TV credits include Joe Carter in Coronation Street, Silent Witness and Casualty. He also has extensive stage and film credits.
The cast also includes Gavin Fowler in the titular role of Dorian Gray. His is an amazing performance, showing the changes in Dorian’s – and possibly our own if we are honest – personality as he struggles with malign influences and his conscience as he matures. The performance is amazing, at times reminiscent of a cross-between Tom Hollander and Alan Rickman. Gavin’s recent credits include Troilus in Troilus and Cressida for the RSC.
Further casting includes Daniel Goode as the wonderfully innocent Basil Hallward, Kate Dobson as Sybil Vane, Adele James in the roles of Catherine Vane and Ellen Campbell and Phoebe Pryce as the bewitching Lady Victoria Wotton. Samuel Townsend completes the cast as Boy/Romeo.
The play, based on the classic novel, celebrates Wilde’s wonderful language and will appeal to audiences old and new. It is adapted and directed by SéanAydon, designed by Sarah Beaton with lighting by Matt Haskins and sound by Jon Mcleod.
The Picture of Dorian Gray tells the story of a cultured, wealthy, and beautiful young man’s downfall through moral corruption and seduction. Dorian, who, fearing that his good looks would fade as he grows old, wishes that a portrait painted of him could bear the burden of the ageing process, leaving him forever young. But at what cost…? Featuring Wilde’s famous wit and a stellar cast, The Picture of Dorian Gray is a fast-paced thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat right up until the stunning final scenes of the play – providing a really entertaining night out for all.
The Picture of Dorian Gray is at the Capitol Horsham tonight and tomorrow www.thecapitolhorsham.com
