Oscar Wilde’s The
Picture Of Dorian Gray is one of those timeless pieces of literature that
remains incredibly relevant: not least for its homoeroticism and hedonism in
gay culture, but also its themes of moral duplicity, public image, and the
adoration of youth. Yet with so many adaptations of the story (theatrical and
cinematic), it’s difficult to bring something novel and original.
This particular production is adapted by Merlin Holland,
Wilde’s only grandson, in which he has restored many of the revisions that
Wilde’s original text was subject to under censorship. As a result, Holland has
attempted to stay true to Wilde’s original vision. Yet what’s so intriguing
about the published version is its homoerotic subtlety, the novel taking on a
life of its own as the writer hides his feelings behind his words. Here,
though, that subtlety is lost, becoming a far more overtly homosexual
narrative.
The first scene feels particularly seedy, with the elder Lord
Henry Wotton (John Gorick) and Basil Hallward (Ruper Mason) blatantly fawning
over the young Dorian (Guy Warren-Thomas). It’s as if the men openly show their
sexual interest rather than a quiet, intriguing fascination. The actors
certainly revel in Wilde’s language and philosophy, but the performances lack
restraint.
By the time the second act comes around, the pace has
quickened considerably, with shorter scenes, actors jumping between roles with
little introduction or development, and awkward scene changes. This, in
addition to a plain set and amateurish staging, make for a far from handsome
picture: it’s clumsy, lacks depth, and the additions are underwhelming. The
only personality comes from the comical portrayal of the various peripheral
characters. Some of this is purposeful if unnecessary, such as male actors in
drag to cover female roles with the finesse of a pantomime dame. At other times
it’s unintentional: the darker, mystical elements of the plot are undermined by
amusing costumes, spooky music and clichéd voiceover.
The only actor not to change character is Warren-Thomas as
Dorian. His angular features are certainly striking but he plays the role with a
calm gentility that’s all too polite. Like the production as a whole, it’s overly
safe and lacks a distinctive edge – unlike Wilde himself, the cast and crew are
too fearful to take a risk.
2/5
Watch: The Picture of
Dorian Gray runs at the Trafalgar Studios until 13th February.
Photos: Emily Hyland
