CREDITON Arts Centre, in East Street, will soon be hosting Brown Paper Bag Theatre Company, its in-house group, with a production of “The Picture Of Dorian Gray”, adapted by John Osbourne from Oscar Wilde's novel.

Due to the disruptions of the past two years, this is BPB's first production since its highly acclaimed “Under Milk Wood” in 2019, directed by Frank Kelsall.

Frank again takes up the reins for this show, which will be the 37th that BPB has done since starting in 1984. 

Set in 1890's Victorian society, it is a tale of a naive young man, Dorian Gray, whose portrait is perfectly painted by society artist, Basil Hallwood.

At Basil's studio he meets the cynical influencer, Lord Henry Wotton, who introduces him to new thoughts and ideas.

Over time, as Dorian becomes more and more corrupt, he seems not to age or lose his looks; meanwhile, curious things are happening to the painting.

This mysterious and dark story is sprinkled with Wilde's wit, humour, social satire and reflections on Art.

Featuring more of Lindy Yellowlees' sumptuous costumes, atmospheric lighting from Jack Robson, and classical music of the time, the play will be performed on the nights of Monday, January 23 (at a special low price of £9), and then from Wednesday, January 25 to Saturday, January 28 (£12). Performances start at 7.30pm.

Tickets are available online from: ticketsource.co.uk/creditonartscentre  and from Crediton Arts Centre on 01363 773260.