A simultaneously entertaining yet eerie retelling of Orwell’s classic 1984

As someone who has always been amazed by how George Orwell’s 1984 has managed to stay truly relevant since its inception 75 years ago I was incredibly excited to see it in theatre format. It’s safe to say my expectations were high (especially when I found out it was immersive) and after 75 minutes of being assessed as a new party member I would say the show passed the test.

Hackney Town Hall takes centre stage in Adam Taub’s adaptation which creates the perfect administrative feel. This is a true selling point of the show and is something Pure Expression is known for as a theatre company considering all its productions are site-specific retellings of classic stories. 

As a new recruit for the administration, audience members are directed to and from two rooms (both stairs and lift accessible) where the show takes place. Right off the bat, audience members are handed badges with specific numbers before the show begins and are greeted as said badge number.

As a timid theatre go-er who starts sweating at merely the word “immersive” I was curious (and anxious) to see exactly how immersive the experience would be. Luckily, all immersive elements are voluntary, but the cast still manage to evoke just the right amount of fear to be spoken to or picked on while still keeping it fun. From beginning to end, you are made to feel part of Oceania and the 1984 universe – which is not too far from our current one.

In terms of the story, the adaptation follows some key plot points (with some minor alterations) but ultimately is not a play by play of the novel. All to the show’s benefit as it keeps the material fresh for existing fans while still retaining the essence of the novel for audience members who are not familiar with it. 

My one critique would be the seating arrangements where the show predominantly takes place. I understand what was trying to be achieved however I feel like at some points it is very difficult to see which is a sure-fire way to cause an audience member to lose interest.

Regardless, as someone who is familiar with Orwell’s 1984 or not this immersive retelling challenges what we consider to be the truth in today’s society all while providing the entertaining (but still creepy) element that is necessary for a successful show. Running from now until 22nd of December, join the party for a Halloween excursion or a pre-Christmas thrill.