1984, Theatre Royal Bath Review

The cast of 1984 at Theatre Royal Bath. Photo by Simon Annand

Written by Bryony for Theatre and Tonic

Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in return for an honest review. All opinions are our own

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Ryan Craig’s adaption of the infamous 1984, written by George Orwell in 1949, 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. Although the novel has remained one of the most chillingly prescient works in the seventy-five years since it was first published, it’s not one I’ve actually read so I had limited knowledge of what was in store.

On 4th April 1984, Winston Smith, comrade number 6079, starts a diary, a simple act which puts his life in jeopardy. We’re introduced to Winston as a seemingly rule-abiding citizen, following the rules that the regime and ultimate leader ‘Big Brother’ has laid out for him. However, once he meets and begins a love affair with co-worker Julia, played by Eleanor Wyld, we start to learn of his rebellious streak and alternative thoughts, that she encourages him to pursue. This enrages the authorities, and they’re left wondering if they can truly trust each other. 

Mark Quartley’s incredible portrayal of Winston truly left you feeling as if you were observing a starving, suffering man and some particular scenes in the second half almost felt too difficult to watch, yet Mark made you want to. Keith Allen plays the mysterious O’Brien – to begin with, we’re led to believe he’ll help them overthrow the regime, however, we soon learn he may in fact be the one to confront them with their most terrifying fears. Allen had some lengthy, tricky dialogue which he seemed to struggle with from time to time, however, it didn’t take away from the overall performance.

The staging was simple, with some very clever and well executed effects, even before the show started with a camera roaming around and zooming in to show members of the live audience. The pre-recorded videos intertwined within the show were so seamless it often felt like they were surely delivering the performances live. The set and costumes were paired back and simple, which complemented the scenes and left the acting to rightly be the main event.

Overall, it was an incredibly gripping production, that’s not for the faint of heart. This show will have you on the edge of your seat as the cast brings to life what it would be like in a world of totalitarianism, mass surveillance, and repressive regimentation of people and behaviours within society. 1984 is a powerful, thought-provoking, albeit slightly disturbing and traumatising show that’ll stay with you and make you think about what it would be like to live in a world like this. 

At Theatre Royal Bath until 28 September 2024 as part of a wider UK tour. 

★ ★ ★ ★