'O'Brien! They've got you too!' 'They got me a long time ago.' Winston Smith is in prison, found guilty of Thoughtcrimes against Big Brother. As part of his reconstruction, he must re-enact key moments from his past life, with the help of other thought criminals, so that everyone can learn from his mistakes. Including his biggest mistake of all: falling in love with Julia. George Orwell's classic dystopia 1984 is a still-resonant vision of the tolls of living under totalitarianism. Constructed almost entirely from dialogue taken from the original novel, this bold and powerful dramatisation restores the blazing heart of Orwell's work: a doomed love story, with the lovers at its centre. This pre-eminently stageable version, adapted with an eye on economy by Nick Hern for a cast of five or more, is ideal for any school, youth group or amateur company looking to bring Orwell's chilling vision to life on stage.
George Orwell
George Orwell, born Eric Arthur Blair in 1903, was an English novelist, essayist, journalist, and critic. He is best known for his works "Animal Farm" and "Nineteen Eighty-Four," which are both powerful critiques of totalitarianism and authoritarianism. Orwell's writing style is characterized by clarity, precision, and a sharp wit, making his works accessible and thought-provoking for readers.
Orwell's contributions to literature include his exploration of political and social issues, as well as his commitment to truth and honesty in writing. His works have had a lasting impact on the dystopian and political fiction genres, influencing countless authors and thinkers. "Nineteen Eighty-Four" in particular has become a classic of modern literature, with its portrayal of a bleak and oppressive future society resonating with readers around the world. Orwell's legacy as a writer and social critic continues to be celebrated and studied today for its enduring relevance and insight.