In this recent adaptation of George Orwell 1984director Lindsay Posner and editor Ryan Craig powerfully capture the essence of Orwell’s cautionary tale. Set within the unrelenting confines of a totalitarian society that restricts independent thought, the story follows Winston Smith, an everyman whose small bout of rebellion exacts a devastating cost.
Mark Quartley and Eleanor Wyld play Winston and Julia, a defiant couple eager to challenge their oppressive government. Yet despite the romantic undertones of their relationship, the pair lack convincing chemistry. Rather than closeness, their bond stems from a shared frustration and rage at a world that stifles all forms of freedom. However, this shift from romance to raw rebellion gives their union a powerful authenticity and binds them together in a way that speaks more to Orwell’s themes of solidarity and resistance than traditional love.
The real star of the show is Keith Allen, who takes on the role of O’Brien, Winston’s scheming superior and eventual tormentor. With a chillingly calm and controlled performance, Allen captures Orwell’s “plain face of oppressive power.” Although he is not on stage, Allen’s O’Brien lurks in the production, watching ominously from the sidelines and psychologically manipulating both the cast and the audience. His lack of restraint and cold authority make his power seem disturbingly insidious, adding a layer of dread to every scene he inhabits.
The production itself is also mere retention. Justin Nardella’s set, costume and video design complement the heavy tone with LED projections, see-through screens and a massive eye on stage, signifying Big Brother’s constant surveillance. In a unique twist, the audience is placed inside the immersive production before it begins, with live feeds recording them as they find their seats; a reminder of how widespread surveillance has become in the current climate.
However, at times this adaptation simplifies Orwell’s complex ideas with revealing dialogue, but this accessibility establishes today’s themes of language and topics, from “fake news” to the erosion of individual rights. Emphasizing some of Orwell’s concepts such as Newspeak and media manipulation, the play draws clear parallels to contemporary concerns about governance and the manipulation of truth.
As a whole, while some aspects of this 1984 the adaptation could benefit from a nuanced delivery, its powerful modern resonance more than making up for the drawbacks. Ultimately, this production reminds audiences that Orwell’s warnings are still as relevant as they were 75 years ago, an essential reminder of the dangers of authoritarianism and unchecked control.
Author: Neave Glennon
The 1984 the touring production runs at the Theater Royal Brighton until Saturday 2nd November. Ticket prices from £15.
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Photos: Simon Annand
