Sarah Snook Stars in Broadway’s Adaptation of ‘The Picture of Dorian Gray’
Aussie actress Sarah Snook has made an impactful return to the stage, captivating audiences with her performance in Oscar Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray. Known for her previously acclaimed role as Siobhan “Shiv” Roy in HBO’s Succession, Snook is now showcasing her versatility by playing 26 distinct characters in this modern theatrical adaptation.
Broadway Debut and Character Transformation
In this unique rendition of Wilde’s tale, Snook skillfully shifts through a range of accents, costumes, and gender roles, presenting a compelling narrative about a young man who trades his soul for eternal youth. The play combines elements of suspense, horror, humor, and profound emotion. As Snook points out, Wilde’s work contains significant pathos that resonates deeply with the human experience:
“I think there’s a lot of empathy for the human condition – seeing the soul as a real thing and as a part of your body,” Snook expressed.
Cultural Relevance and Historical Context
Originally published in 1890, The Picture of Dorian Gray faced harsh criticism from Victorian reviewers who deemed it “poisonous” and “morally depraved.” Fast forward to today, and the story carries renewed significance in our image-centric society where constructing a visual persona, especially online, is prevalent. Snook elaborates that her role’s multifaceted nature highlights the various “masks” individuals assume in public versus private life.
A Journey Through Complex Characters
Snook’s portrayal of complex personas extends beyond her stage work. Initially hesitant to audition for the role of Shiv Roy due to a perceived disconnect with the character’s affluence and beauty, she later recognized her affinity for anti-heroes. Reflecting on her childhood, Snook mentioned:
“I watched a ton of Disney films… all I wanted to be was Ursula and Scar, all the villains.”
Creative Collaboration and Innovation
Director Kip Williams, who adapted and directs the production, envisioned a single actress embodying the multiple facets of Wilde’s story. He emphasized the theatrical concept that life itself is a form of performance, where individuals constantly reveal or conceal various aspects of their identity. Williams described the performance style as “cine-theater,” merging live artistry with technology such as cameras and LED screens to enrich the storytelling:
“The camera team and the crew are kind of like her co-performers,” Williams stated.
Balancing Personal and Professional Life
Despite the demanding nature of her Broadway role and having welcomed a child during the pandemic, Snook maintains a positive outlook. Reflecting on the pressures of her debut, she quipped about managing the overwhelming responsibilities:
“You can only eat an elephant one spoonful at a time,” she recalled, and humorously added, “Now I’ve gotta eat the Broadway part of the elephant!”
Conclusion
As Sarah Snook takes the stage in The Picture of Dorian Gray, her transformative performance not only honors Wilde’s literary legacy but also resonates with contemporary audiences grappling with identity in an image-driven culture. This Broadway debut promises to be a memorable experience, highlighting Snook’s talent and the enduring relevance of Oscar Wilde’s themes.
Watch the Trailer
To see Sarah Snook in action, watch the trailer for The Picture of Dorian Gray below: