Dorian (NHB Modern Plays)

The Picture of Dorian Gray is a novel by Oscar Wilde that was a success de scandale on its publication in 1891. It follows the descent of a man from glorious debauchery to epic self-destruction, intertwined with Wilde's own life story and his tragic persecution and imprisonment.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 21 October 2021
Publisher: Nick Hern Books

Dorian Gray, a captivating and hedonistic individual, embarks on a perilous journey as he sells his soul to attain eternal beauty. Accompanied by Basil and Henry, his companions on this twisted path, the trio revels in their indulgences until the consequences become brutally fatal. The novel, penned by Oscar Wilde, caused a scandal upon its release in 1891 due to its alleged defiance of public morality laws. However, it swiftly captivated the hearts of readers, resonating with the spirit of the era and the essence of a man possessed by his unparalleled genius. This captivating stage adaptation, crafted by Phoebe Eclair-Powell and Owen Horsley, delves into the tragic tale of a man's descent from a life of glorious debauchery to an epic descent into self-destruction. It intertwines Wilde's own life story, marked by persecution and imprisonment in Reading Gaol, adding depth and poignancy to the narrative.

The novel's central character, Dorian Gray, is a youthful and captivating individual, blessed with unparalleled beauty. However, his pursuit of pleasure and self-indulgence leads him down a dark and twisted path. As he ages, his portrait, a masterpiece created by an unknown artist, begins to reflect the sins and moral decay of his soul. The portrait serves as a haunting reminder of his transgressions, and as time passes, Dorian's physical appearance deteriorates while his portrait remains unscathed, a testament to his corrupt nature.

Dorian's relationship with Basil Hallward, a young and idealistic artist, is a central aspect of the novel. Basil is captivated by Dorian's beauty and falls deeply in love with him. However, he soon realizes the darker side of Dorian's character, and their friendship becomes strained. Basil's moral compass clashes with Dorian's hedonistic lifestyle, and he becomes increasingly concerned about the consequences of their actions.

Henry Wotton, a wealthy and influential man, becomes Dorian's friend and mentor. Wotton is fascinated by Dorian's charm and charisma and encourages him to pursue his desires without restraint. He introduces Dorian to the pleasures of the world, including art, music, and literature, and encourages him to live life to the fullest. However, Wotton's influence on Dorian is ultimately destructive, as he manipulates and exploits him for his own gain.

As Dorian's descent into sin and self-destruction intensifies, his relationships with Basil and Henry crumble under the weight of his actions. Basil, unable to bear witness to Dorian's moral decay, distances himself from him, while Henry becomes consumed by guilt and remorse. Dorian's pursuit of beauty and pleasure becomes an obsession, and he is willing to do anything to maintain his youthful appearance.

The novel's climax occurs when Dorian murders a young man named Basil Hallward. Driven by his desire for immortality and the fear of his portrait aging, Dorian kills Basil to preserve his own beauty. The murder sends shockwaves through society, and Dorian is arrested and sentenced to death. However, before he can be executed, Dorian confesses his sins and begs for forgiveness.

The Picture of Dorian Gray is a powerful exploration of the human condition, exploring themes of beauty, youth, sin, and redemption. It is a cautionary tale that warns against the dangers of pursuing superficiality and the consequences of moral decay. Wilde's writing is masterful, with his vivid descriptions and intricate characterizations bringing the story to life. The stage adaptation, directed by Phoebe Eclair-Powell and Owen Horsley, captures the essence of the novel and its themes, creating a thrilling and emotional experience for audiences.

In conclusion, The Picture of Dorian Gray is a masterpiece of literature that has captivated readers for generations. Oscar Wilde's exploration of the human condition, his vivid writing, and the powerful themes of the novel make it a timeless masterpiece. This thrilling stage adaptation, directed by Phoebe Eclair-Powell and Owen Horsley, brings the story to life in a way that is both captivating and emotional, reminding us of the dangers of pursuing superficiality and the importance of moral integrity.

Weight: 120g
Dimension: 198 x 128 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781839040511