Podcast Summary: "Sarah Snook Tackles 'The Picture of Dorian Gray'"

Podcast Information:

• Title: All Of It
• Host: Alison Stewart
• Episode: Sarah Snook Tackles 'The Picture of Dorian Gray'
• Release Date: June 6, 2025
• Description: ALL OF IT is a show about culture and its consumers, aiming to engage thinkers, doers, makers, and creators in discussions about the what and why of their work.

Introduction to the Episode

In this episode of All Of It, host Alison Stewart delves into the intricate world of Broadway's latest sensation, featuring actress Sarah Snook. The episode centers around Sarah's portrayal of Dorian Gray in the highly acclaimed one-woman show, a modern adaptation of Oscar Wilde's classic tale.

Overview of the Play and Sarah Snook’s Role

Alison Stewart introduces listeners to the ambitious production where Sarah Snook embodies 26 different characters in the Broadway play "The Picture of Dorian Gray". The production is lauded for its innovative use of technology, including five cameras, large and small screens, diorama-shaped sets, and live video editing, all orchestrated under the direction of Kip Williams. The play has garnered six Tony nominations, including a Best Actress nod for Sarah Snook, who also received the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Lead Performance. The narrative reimagines Oscar Wilde's tale, exploring themes of youth, beauty, and moral decay, culminating in Dorian Gray's descent into madness.

Interview Highlights with Sarah Snook

Taking on the Role Amidst Personal Milestones ([02:53] - [03:08])

Alison begins by asking Sarah whether she intended to take a break after her role in the acclaimed TV show "Succession" or if she was actively seeking her next project.

Sarah Snook responds:

"Yeah, definitely just looking to take a break... It's a dream come true really."
[02:53]

She expresses surprise and joy at landing the role, highlighting how unexpected yet fulfilling the opportunity has been.

Meeting Kip Williams and Collaborative Beginnings ([03:08] - [03:53])

Alison inquires about Sarah's first encounter with director Kip Williams, who had previously acknowledged her talent during her drama school days.

Sarah Snook shares:

"He was the artistic director of Sydney Theatre Company when I first did a show there called St. Joan in 2018... we always since then wanted to work together."
[03:25]

This long-awaited collaboration underscores the synergy between actress and director, setting the stage for the play's success.

Balancing Motherhood and a Demanding Role ([03:53] - [05:26])

Discussing the complexities of performing 26 roles while being six months postpartum, Sarah reflects on the disciplined approach required.

Sarah Snook explains:

"There was like a particular kind of choreography to this piece that was already set that I had to work within... It was very structured in that way."
[05:47]

She highlights the structured environment that allowed her to thrive creatively despite personal challenges.

Creative Process and Choreography ([05:26] - [07:28])

Alison likens the play's structured approach to playing music, where understanding the foundational elements is crucial before improvisation.

Sarah Snook compares:

"It’s very similar to jazz in that way... I can jazz it up. I can put a little bit more emphasis on this part of the sentence..."
[07:16]

This analogy illustrates how Sarah navigates the balance between adhering to the play's framework and injecting personal creativity into her performance.

Performing with Multiple Versions of Herself ([07:28] - [09:03])

The conversation shifts to the technical aspects of Sarah performing alongside herself using screens and camera work.

Sarah Snook remarks:

"I have to find new ways to find that actor on stage, which is me... I have to find new ways to receive what they are saying."
[07:28]

She emphasizes the importance of imagination and adaptability in creating a seamless and engaging performance.

Acknowledging the Behind-the-Scenes Team ([09:03] - [08:29])

When asked about the camera operators, Sarah gives heartfelt appreciation to the crew who play pivotal roles in the show's dynamics.

Sarah Snook states:

"They are so integral and necessary to the performance of this show... it is an ensemble performance with the camera crew cast being both protagonists as well as antagonists."
[08:00]

This acknowledgment highlights the collaborative nature of the production, where every team member contributes to the storytelling.

Character Development and Thematic Exploration ([10:10] - [14:18])

Alison probes into the importance of the initial scenes and character introductions, and how these set the tone for the entire play.

Sarah Snook elaborates:

"Oscar Wilde once said that the Portrait of Dorian Gray was somewhat not autobiographical, but there were essences of him in there."
[10:30]

The discussion delves into how the characters embody different facets of Dorian Gray's persona and the societal implications of his actions.

When exploring the evolution of the portrait, Sarah offers:

"I think it's all. I think it does show him aging and shows him aging faster... the decrepitude of his spirit and soul."
[14:18]

This insight underscores the play's focus on the psychological and moral deterioration mirrored by the portrait.

Motivation and Personal Insights ([14:51] - [15:01])

Alison asks about Sarah's personal strategies for maintaining motivation during performances.

Sarah Snook shares wisdom from her husband:

"There is one person in the audience... They are there for wanting you to show them a great show and just that one person... that's the person to do it for."
[15:01]

This perspective highlights the dedication and emotional investment Sarah brings to her role.

Conclusion of the Interview

Alison wraps up the interview by reiterating Sarah Snook's Tony nomination and the extended run of the play through June 29th. She teases the next segment, which explores another Tony-nominated play in a high school setting in Georgia.

Alison Stewart concludes:

"This is your last month to catch Sarah in this incredible performance... Stay with us."
[15:36]

Key Takeaways

• Innovation in Theater: The production's use of technology and live editing marks a significant evolution in stage performances, blending traditional acting with modern multimedia elements.

• Acting Versatility: Sarah Snook’s ability to portray 26 characters showcases her exceptional range and dedication, making the play a standout in contemporary theater.

• Thematic Depth: The adaptation explores profound themes of youth, beauty, morality, and the consequences of one's actions, reflecting both Wilde's original intent and modern societal concerns.

• Collaborative Effort: The success of the play is a testament to the seamless collaboration between Sarah, director Kip Williams, and the entire production crew, highlighting the importance of teamwork in creative endeavors.

For those interested in experiencing this groundbreaking production, "The Picture of Dorian Gray" is currently running on Broadway and will continue until June 29th. Don't miss the opportunity to witness Sarah Snook's award-winning performance.