1984

ROOM 101 … BIG BROTHER IS WATCHING YOU … SUPER STATES … THOUGHT POLICE … George Orwell’s masterpiece 1984 creates a world where every action is painstakingly monitored and controlled by a powerful regime, where independent thought and choice are relics of an almost-forgotten past.

The novel which most influenced the 21^st century is brought to the stage in a thrilling new multi-media version by Ryan Craig. Shocking and fantastical when first written in 1949, Orwell’s novel has remained one of the most chillingly prescient works in the seventy-five years since it was first published.

On 4^th April 1984, Winston Smith, comrade number 6079, starts a diary, a simple act which puts Winston’s life in jeopardy. A clandestine love affair with co-worker Julia further enrages the authorities, but can they truly trust each other? And what of the mysterious O’Brien? Will he help them overthrow the regime, confront them with their most terrifying fears, or worse…?

Versatile actor, comedian and musician Keith Allen (The Young Ones, The Pembrokeshire Murders, The Homecoming, Pinter 3) plays O’Brien, with Mark Quartley (BBC’s Inside Man, The Tempest, RSC) as Winston, Eleanor Wyld (Macbeth, The Merchant of Venice, Shakespeare’s Globe) as Julia and David Birrell (King John, RSC, Bodies, Netflix) as Parsons. Niamh Bennett, Paul Sockett, Lewis Hart as Ensemble.

Ryan Craig’s recent work includes Charlotte and Theodore, which received its world premiere at the Ustinov Studio in February 2023.

Director Lindsay Posner returns to Bath fresh from the West End transfers of Noises Off and A View From The Bridge, and the sell-out success of The Deep Blue Sea.

Age guidance - 14+, this production contains scenes which some audience members may find distressing.

1984 - Tour Dates 2024:
1 - 5 October 2024 Malvern Theatre
8 - 12 October 2024 Lighthouse Poole
15 - 19 October 2024 Yvonne Arnaud Guildford
22 - 26 October 2024 Cambridge Arts Theatre
29 October - 2 November 2024 Brighton Theatre Royal
12 - 16 November 2024 Richmond Theatre
19 - 23 November 2024 Liverpool Playhouse