Jack Crumlin has been announced to star as Dorian Gray in a new adaptation of Oscar Wilde’s novel, directed by Seán Aydon. The production will open at Watford Palace Theatre in October 2026 before touring six other UK venues.

Jack Crumlin, known for his roles in Stranger Things: The First Shadow and the West End production of To Kill a Mockingbird, will lead the cast of The Picture of Dorian Gray as the titular character. The new adaptation and direction come from Seán Aydon.

Mark Oxtoby, whose credits include Back to the Future and The Phantom of the Opera, will play Basil Hallward. Mark Hawkins, appearing in The Woman in Black in both the West End and on tour, will take the role of Lord Henry Wotton.

The production also features Lydia Whitehead as Sybil Vane, Ayesha Griffiths as Catherine Vane, Lydea Perkins as Lady Victoria Wotton, and Max Burnett as Romeo.

Based on Wilde’s only novel, the play follows Dorian Gray, a young man whose portrait ages in his place while he remains outwardly youthful, exploring themes of vanity and moral decay.

The run will begin at Watford Palace Theatre from 1 to 3 October 2026. It will then tour the UK, playing Shakespeare North Playhouse, Eastbourne Theatres, Theatre by the Lake, Theatr Clwyd, and Yvonne Arnaud Theatre in Guildford between October and early November.

The tour is presented by Tilted Wig in association with Watford Palace Theatre. The creative team includes set and costume designer Sarah Beaton, lighting designer Peter Small, sound designer Russell Ditchfield, and fight director and intimacy co-ordinator Kaitlin Howard.

This revival brings fresh attention to Wilde’s classic novel through Aydon’s adaptation, promising a visually and thematically engaging theatrical experience during its regional tour.