Ché Francis plays Henry in Reading Rep Theatre’s DORIAN, a world première adaptation of The Picture of Dorian Gray written by Bruntwood Prize winner Phoebe Eclair-Powell, and RSC Associate Director Owen Horsley.
This production will be accompanied by participation project Made in Reading that explores Reading’s LGBTQIA+ history and Wilde’s imprisonment in Reading Gaol.
The production opens on 19 October, with previews from 13 October and runs until 7 November. DORIAN is the first production in the Reading Rep: Reborn season and marks the opening of Reading Rep’s new cultural arts hub following a two-year campaign which raised over £1 million to build the state-of-the-art performance space.
You’re playing Henry in DORIAN at Reading Rep, what can you tell us about this adaptation of the Oscar Wilde classic?
This adaption is aligned with the story of Oscar Wilde and his deep connection to the Picture of Dorian Gray. You’ll see an alignment of his life that strikingly combines with the life of characters in the classic story. All with added sparkle and 21st Century sass of course!
What was it about Phoebe Eclair-Powell and Owen Horsley’s script that made you want to be part of this production?
The lack of apology just really amazed me. I was offered the job before I saw the script, but reading it gave me goosebumps, and I knew this was a production I wanted to be part of. Added to the fact that Owen and Phoebe are brilliant writers, I was super excited to work with them to make their vision come true.
How does it feel to be appearing in the first production of the Reading Rep Reborn season?
It’s a big honour for sure! The theatre is really going to pave the way for culture in Reading. It’s been amazing talking to a few locals, who are excited about having this amazing cultural hub in their town.
Reading has quite a connection to Wilde, tell us a little about the accompanying participation project, Made in Reading?
The idea behind Made In Reading is for Reading Rep to connect with the local community, to instil pride of place and celebrate Reading’s heritage and cultural significance. Reading Rep has connected with 10 local primary schools, Reading College students and various community adult groups, offering free practical workshops encouraging all participants to be creative, making work inspired by our town.
The community groups and Reading College students have all received free tickets to come and see DORIAN, the feedback so far has been incredible.
There will also be a post-show discussion investigating Reading’s link to Oscar Wilde, exploring how our cultural offer can best be an ally for the LGBTQAI+ community.
What are you looking forward to most about playing this version of Henry?
I’m looking forward to showing an unapologetically queer side to the role. After all, the characters in the play are like mirrors to Oscar’s life.
What would you say to anyone thinking of coming to see DORIAN?
If you like glitter, campness, decadence, and sin come along. If the theatre deeply interests and affects you, then you’ll love it!
