The Picture of Dorian Gray, by Irish writer Oscar Wilde, was first published in 1890 in Lippincott’s Monthly Magazine. The novel, the only one written by Wilde, then had six additional chapters added when it was released as a book in 1891.
Set in late 19th-century London, the novel follows the life of a wealthy and exceptionally beautiful young man introduced to hedonistic ideals by a man called Lord Henry.
After being painted by the renown and celebrated artist Basil Hallward, Dorian wishes for the portrait to age instead of him, leading to his moral decay resulting from his indulgent lifestyle, his mistreatment of others and the lack of consequence for his actions.
The novel is often described as the last of the great victorian gothic fictions and a critique of Victorian society, of human nature, and the allure of pursuing pleasure without regard for ethical or moral boundaries.
"The Picture of Dorian Gray" was originally met with controversy due to its perceived themes of immorality. However, over time, it has become a celebrated work known for its wit, social commentary, and investigation of philosophical themes. The novel’s enduring story line still provokes thought about the superficial nature of society.
Adaptations of The Picture of Dorian Gray have taken many various forms, in film adaptations, radio and stage plays, and of course musicals.
Ivan Albright’s Picture of Dorian Gray
Currently on display at the
art institute of Chicago
NOTES ABOUT THE SHOW
FROM CREATOR AND PRODUCER
MARK J. MIDDLEMISS
...
It was over twenty years ago when I decided to put together
a musical version of ‘The Picture of Dorian Gray’.
As a lifelong fan of the novel, and of musicals,
I always felt it was the perfect source material to be
produced as a musical stage show.
. . .
I am nowhere near the first to try the idea, there
have been a few musical versions over the years, But while
those who have done it before have often chosen to
recreate and interpret the novel in different ways, I have
chosen to stay as faithful to the original text
and story as possible. For me, the great narrative
in this story is that of mortality verses mortality, and
while what is considered moral and immoral has changed
a lot since 1890, I believe the story still
stands strong today as one of the great gothic fictions.
. . .
In this production I felt no need to change the
characters or the time period, and that which was implied
but not explicitised has been left that way, there
is much more suggestion rather than explicit depiction.
However, to those who know the novel well you will notice
that one particular character and the way that they
are portrayed both visually and verbally has been slightly
altered as I don’t believe this language is a way to
define someone in todays world (and I feel O.W. would feel
the same if he were writing it today). I hope you
will join us next year when the show opens in London
and on it’s subsiquent UK tour.
- Much Love -
MJM