Actor Kevin Kennedy is famous for his long-running role as Curly Watts in Coronation Street. He also has stage credits like Rock of Ages and We Will Rock You. Now, he is set to star as Mr. Isaacs in a brand-new musical adaptation of Oscar Wilde’s classic gothic novel, The Picture of Dorian Gray. This upcoming production marks Kennedy’s 50th year in show business. It will launch a major six-month tour across the UK and Ireland, beginning at the Darlington Hippodrome on October 19, 2026.
Darlington native Mark J. Middlemiss created the sung-through musical. It was developed over 18 months and features a 13-member cast. The production uses an original score to transport Victorian London to the stage while remaining faithful to Wilde’s 1890 novel. Creators describe the musical’s dark, operatic style as comparable to classic theatrical works like Sweeney Todd and Jesus Christ Superstar.
Full Cast and Creative Team Announced
The 13-strong cast features a mix of established stage performers and talent from the show’s original concept album. That album has already accumulated over 500,000 streams online. Christopher Twyford will take on the demanding title role of Dorian Gray. In the story, Dorian’s beauty and wealth lead to his eventual moral undoing after he makes a fateful, supernatural wish.
Additional principal casting includes:
- Charlotte Castle as Sibyl Vane
- Kevin Kennedy as Mr. Isaacs
- Kingsley Judd as Lord Henry Wotton, the influential friend inspired by Oscar Wilde
- George McKinley as artist Basil Hallward
- Keegan Featherstone as Jim Vane
- Louise Grayson as Lady Agatha
The ensemble features Marie McNaugher, Sam Kingsley, Charley Robbie, Meg Luscombe, and Alistair Fitton.
Plot and Production Details
The narrative follows Dorian Gray, a young man whose appearance remains untouched by time and vice after his soul becomes tethered to a mysterious portrait. Dorian descends into an increasingly debauched and immoral lifestyle under the guidance of Lord Henry Wotton. Meanwhile, the painting secretly absorbs his sins, ageing and corrupting in his place.
Creator Mark J. Middlemiss noted that the project has been more than two decades in the making. His primary goal was to present Wilde’s original setting, characters, and dialogue entirely through music rather than dramatic reinterpretation.
UK and Ireland Tour Schedule
Following its world premiere at the Darlington Hippodrome on October 19, 2026, the production will travel to numerous regional theatres through April 2027. Confirmed tour stops include venues in Halifax, Hunstanton, Weymouth, Gravesend, Lowestoft, Kettering, Runcorn, Blackpool, Swansea, Stockport, Newcastle, Wakefield, Aberdeen, Perth, Arbroath, and New Brighton. It will also visit venues such as the Assembly Hall Theatre and the Tyne Theatre & Opera House.
The production carries a recommended age guidance of 14+. This is due to adult themes including murder, simulated smoking, haze, strobe effects, and loud noises such as gunshots. Tickets and further information are currently available through the official production website.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Dorian Gray musical tour begin?
The tour officially opens on October 19, 2026, at the Darlington Hippodrome and is scheduled to run through April 2027 across the UK and Ireland.
Who plays the title role of Dorian Gray?
Actor Christopher Twyford takes on the lead role of Dorian Gray in this new stage adaptation.
What role does Kevin Kennedy play in the production?
Kevin Kennedy stars as Mr. Isaacs. This production marks a major milestone for Kennedy as he celebrates his 50th year in show business.
Is the musical faithful to Oscar Wilde’s original novel?
Yes, creator Mark J. Middlemiss designed the production to stay faithful to Wilde’s original 1890 text. It uses an original sung-through score to bring Victorian London to life.
What is the age guidance for the show?
The production carries a recommended age guidance of 14+. This is due to adult themes, simulated smoking, strobe lighting, and loud noises including gunshots.
