THE PICTURE OF DORIAN GRAY
An in-process workshop presentation
Adapted and Directed by Tyler Michaels King
From the novel by Oscar Wilde
September 18 at 7pm and September 19 at 3pm
@ The Capri Theater
SYNOPSIS:
A visceral and vibrant new staging of Oscar Wilde’s famous novel.
When young Dorian Gray meets the devoted artist Basil Hallward and the dazzling, dangerous Henry Wotton, his fate is sealed. In a moment of reckless vanity, shaped by Basil’s adoration and Henry’s intoxicating philosophy, Dorian sells his soul. He bargains for eternal youth, not knowing that every cruelty and every indulgence will splatter his own painted portrait with darkness and corruption.
In this visceral new staging of Oscar Wilde’s famous novel, the pursuit of beauty becomes a brutal act of creation. Set in a stark world of white walls and clean lines, this adaptation strips the story to its rawest elements, using live action painting to chart Dorian’s moral descent. With each choice, each sin, the pristine world is defaced, layered with thick, chaotic strokes of paint that reflect the corruption he hides within.
As Dorian remains untouched, the world around him bears the weight of his decay. Wilde’s decadent language collides with explosive physicality in a production that’s as much a living canvas as a play—a bold meditation on art, desire, corruption, and destruction.
Beauty fades. But the mess we leave behind endures.
CONTENT and LIABILITY ADVISORY:
This workshop presentation incorporates live action painting as part of the performance. During the event, audience members may come into contact with non-toxic, water-based tempera paint. While the paint is generally washable, it may stain certain fabrics. Complimentary protective ponchos will be available to all audience members, but their use is optional. By purchasing a ticket and attending this performance, you acknowledge the possibility of incidental contact with paint and assume the associated risk. Except as prohibited by law, you agree that Trademark Theater is not responsible for damage to clothing or other personal property resulting from incidental paint contact during the performance. Audience members seated in designated splash-zone seating should expect a greater likelihood of paint contact. Individuals with sensitivities to paint or related materials should exercise their own judgment before attending.
Founded in 2017 by award-winning theater artist Tyler Michaels King, TRADEMARKTHEATER is in its ninth season of presenting bold new theatrical works in the vibrant Twin Cities arts community. Trademark's mission seeks to create, develop, and produce original theatrical works in Minnesota by staging adventurous productions for local audiences. Our non-profit theater is committed to serving both theater-goers and artists by commissioning and fostering new plays created by emerging playwrights, composer/lyricists, and theater-makers.
More info at: Trademarktheater.org
