1984

Synopsis

Hidden away in the Record Department of the sprawling Ministry of Truth, Winston Smith skillfully rewrites the past to suit the needs of the Party. Yet he inwardly rebels against the harsh totalitarian world he lives in which demands absolute obedience and controls him through the all-seeing telescreens and the watchful eye of Big Brother, symbolic head of the Party.

Our Review:

Anne Morley-Priestman - 9 November 2010

Orwell’s 1984 has become a classic in more than one way. Its bleak parable of Winston Smith, that less-than-innocent urban cog in a totalitarian wheel, has been adapted for the stage and film several times. Nick Lane's new version gives it a straightforward narrative illuminated by excellent performances and a quite brilliant design concept. It is an attention-riveting piece of pure theatrical magic.

We’re in a world of visual as well as moral distortion. The acting area is hedged in by grey shapes and screens – several sorts of screen. Designer Sue Condie, animators Rob Pointon, Karen Sayle] and Louise Hodkiss with audio-visual designer David Phillips confront us with a kaleidoscopic succession of images. These reference the war art of Moore, Searle and Topolski as well as charcoal-sketched story-boards for printed and film cartoons. Yet they never detract from the five actors on stage, for the most part wearing simple dark boiler-suits.

Read more of the review

Latest User Review

No reviews yet

Click here to add your review