Oscar Wilde’s life will be brought back to Walton for a one-off performance.

Commissioned and first performed at the National Theatre, In Extremis tells the story of how Oscar Wilde consulted society palm reader Mrs Robinson on March 24, 1895, just one week before what was billed as the trial of the century, in which he was tried for committing acts of “gross indecency with men”.

“Mr Wilde, why are you here?” is the question posed by a woman who had the ear of one of the most celebrated men of all time.

Why did Oscar Wilde go to see a complete stranger for advice when his life was at a critical turning point? That is the question posed about poet and playwright Oscar Wilde in In Extremis.

Faced with the choice of fight or flight, was Wilde’s fateful decision based on the advice he received that night?

Mrs Robinson, who had many celebrity clients, including members of the royal family and a young Winston Churchill, is portrayed by Surrey actress Fiz Marcus. Marcus’s television credits include EastEnders, Holby City and Skins.

In Extremis is a one act play with two cast members and runs for just short of an hour.

It raises fascinating questions about why one of the most celebrated, witty and educated men of his generation turned to a complete stranger in his time of need.

In Extremis; Riverhouse Arts Centre, Manor Road, Walton; March 15, 7.30pm; £12; visit thelittleboxoffice.co/riverhouse/event/view/2170.