If you were worried about not getting enough Sarah Snook content now that HBO's Succession is over, we have some rather exciting news to report: it looks like Snook's next project will be a return to live theatre, signing on for an adaptation of Oscar Wilde's The Picture of Dorian Gray in London's West End, where she will be playing...everyone. Yes, all 26 characters in the play will be portrayed by Snook.
You may be wondering – and rightfully so – how in the world is that plausible? Well, the theatre show, devised by Kip Williams of the Sydney Theatre Company, has already premiered in Sydney (to much acclaim, and with its season twice extended), and has been described as something akin to 'cine-theatre', an interplay of video and theatre where some character roles are pre-taped for the live production.
The role marks Snook's first return to the London stage following Matthew Warchus’ 2016 production of The Master Builder alongside Ralph Fiennes.
“I am elated to return to the London stage in such an astonishing piece of theatre,” Snook said of the Wilde production. “From Oscar Wilde’s remarkable original text to Kip Williams’ stunning adaptation, this story of morality, innocence, narcissism, and consequence is going to be thrilling to recreate for a new audience. I can’t wait.”
What is the The Picture of Dorian Gray play about?
Wilde's classic novel is a musing on the ideals of beauty, excess and narcissism, where a young man negotiates a deal with the devil in exchange for lasting youth and good looks. It's a story that still holds a striking resonance even in the 21st century, where debates on the topics of superficiality and ageing are still very much in the public discourse.
Where will the play run?
The Picture of Dorian Gray will run at London's Theatre Royal Haymarket, from 23 January to 13 April next year. Plenty of time to read the novel if you haven't already and book some flights, we think.
