Review! The Picture of Dorian Grey at Watford Palace, October 2026

This production of ‘The Picture of Dorian Gray’ at the Watford Palace Theatre, with a running time of 2hrs 10 mins was dramatic with some excellent acting skills.

For someone such as myself who is not into thrillers or horrors, I was in suspense at what I might witness from this play which has been adapted and directed by Seán Aydon.

Described by the director as “leaving room for the audience to explore their own darkest thoughts, fears and desires”, the show leaves much to the audiences imagination, such a the ‘picture’ of Dorian never being shown.This leaves what has been deciphered by the painter down to the each individual to interpret.

The theme of the play is ‘Gothic Horror’ and this was felt through the suspense from the diegetic music on the build up to the intense scenes along with the low level of lighting used at times.

The lead of Dorian Gray, played by Jack Crumlin, gave a believable story of a man conflicted with himself, easily led by Lord Henry Wotton, played by Mark Hawkins, and searching for himself. Portrayed as a young handsome character that is perfect in every way, we see the unraveling of Dorian as he searches for eternal youth, but also something far more deeper. Just how far can he go with no consequences.

All the actors gave amazing performances, the witty lines from Lord Henry Wotton, kept the atmosphere alive during the first half of the show, along with his relationship with his wife Lady Victoria Wotton played by Lydea Perkins. My favourite line of the show was “the only difference between a fling and a lifelong passion is that a fling lasts a little longer” which showed the humour from Lord Henry which continued throughout.

The play brings elements of today’s society into question when youngsters are so focused on youth and maintaining it, but at what cost?

However, for myself the show was missing something, and in places seemed stagnant. Whether this was from the simplistic scenery that hardly ever changed, or the lack of music in the background I am unsure.

In regards to accessibility it was straightforward and easy and I was much nearer to the stage then other shows I have visited which really helps. I was unable to see all the stage as it was at an angle so it was not until the end of the show that I realised there was a sink on the stage that was used by Dorian. I was able to see the bows at the end but I think this was due to the audience not standing up rather than the seat I had.

Is it worth going to see? If gothic horror or Oscar Wilde is your thing then this might make a nice night out. However, if you are looking for a standing ovation show that will leave you talking about it for days to come, this might not be the right choice.

The Picture of Dorian Gray is on tour until the 7th November, full tour details can be found at https://www.tiltedwigproductions.com/book-now

⭐⭐⭐

Reviewed by Victoria-Jayne Scholes