The Picture of Dorian Gray

05.04.2022

The Picture of Dorian Gray resurrects Oscar Wilde’s classic novel in an outstandingly complex and unique approach. It follows the story of youthful and naive Dorian Gray, a young man who becomes obsessed with his beauty and is willing to do anything in his power to look like the exquisitely painted replica of himself and never grow old. Director and adapter Kip Williams did a fabulous job of conveying the story and connecting to the audience using relevant multimedia techniques; the actor and crew conducted a live performance whilst simultaneously filming the feature.

The props, costume and set were ingeniously designed and implemented and were shown in full detail under the lens of the camera, filmed creatively by the chorus of video operators.

I was utterly blown away by the phenomenal performance of Eryn Jean Norvill, who flawlessly executed the staggering number of 26 roles. Not only was her range tremendous, but she became truly invested in every single character, taking us on an incredible journey. Stretching from photo enhancement, to face altering filters, then costume changes and vocal differences, the production continued to introduce a variety of compelling characters, such as Basil, Sibyl Vane, and the dinner party guests or workers that Norvill brings to life, each one contrasting from the last.

The award-winning actress’s performance in the starring role of Dorian Gray establishes him as a playful, innocent, charming gentleman, and throughout the piece, develops him into a poisonous, obsessed, fear-ridden man. The events unfold due to his corruption from a new friend, Lord Henry, who also possesses similar qualities. And the superficial, intense desire to stay beautiful that Dorian adopts begins to ruin him.

The themes that the performance contemporarily highlighted were all relevant to the period and continue to transcend time to today, such as the facial enhancement features, and the constant struggle that we, as humans, have with our appearance. The Picture of Dorian Gray was one of the most spectacular pieces of theatre I have ever witnessed, receiving several minutes of standing ovations and remarkable applause and reaction from the entire audience. 

I am thrilled to see what new work both Sydney Theatre Company and Eryn Jean Norvill will produce next. It was an absolute pleasure to watch this amazing story come to life in such a creative manner!

5 Stars

Elodie, 16, [she/her]

Sydney Theatre Company’s The Picture of Dorian Gray played at the Roslyn Packer Theatre until 14 May. Book your tickets here.