Sarah Snook is making waves with her versatile performance in "The Picture of Dorian Gray" on Broadway this spring. The Australian actress, known for her role as Siobhan "Shiv" Roy in "Succession," is taking on the challenge of portraying 26 different characters in Oscar Wilde's classic tale. Her ability to switch accents, wigs, and even genders brings to life the story of a man who trades his soul for eternal youth, with his portrait revealing the true nature of his deeds.
The production, filled with suspense, horror, humor, and heart, showcases Wilde's often overlooked empathy for the human condition. Snook, who previously won an Olivier Award for her performance in the show's London run, reflects on the relevance of the story in today's image-driven culture. She notes the significance of choosing which "mask" to present to the world, a theme that resonates strongly in an era dominated by social media.
Snook's journey to American fame began with her portrayal of the ruthless Shiv Roy, a role she initially hesitated to audition for due to her perceived lack of connection with the character's wealth and beauty. However, her fascination with complex anti-heroes, inspired by childhood favorites like Disney villains, drew her to the role.
Her early acting experiences, including performing at children's parties in Adelaide, honed her skills in engaging audiences. Director Kip Williams, who had heard of Snook's talent during his time at the National Institute of Dramatic Art, saw her as the perfect fit for his adaptation of Wilde's work. The innovative production, described as "cine-theater," combines live acting with technology, involving cameras and screens to enhance the storytelling.
While the show is a one-person performance, the camera crew and technical team play a crucial role, creating an ensemble feel. Snook's experience with close-up cameras in "Succession" prepared her well for this unique theatrical experience.
In her personal life, Snook has embraced new roles as a wife and mother. Despite the challenges, she approaches her Broadway debut with confidence, taking on each part of the journey step by step. As she humorously puts it, she's still working on "eating the Broadway part of the elephant."