American Repertory Theater Presents 1984
(© Manuel Harlan)
1984 starts its run at American Repertory Theater this evening.
Based on George Orwell’s 1949 novel of the same name, the show follows Winston Smith, aka Comrade 6079. In Orwell’s vision of April, 1984, thinking a thought is one of the most dangerous things one can do. When Smith begins his diary he sets himself at odds with Big Brother, the ubiquitous entity that is always watching, ready to swing open the door to Room 101. The play takes a close look at close look surveillance and identity in a future that might exist in our present.
The show is directed by Robert Icke and Duncan Macmillan, who created this adaptation. The cast features Matthew Spencer as Winston, Hara Yannas as Julia, Tim Dutton as O’Brien, and Stephen Fewell as Charrington.
The creative team includes Chloe Lamford (set and costume design), Natasha Chivers (lighting design), Tom Gibbons (sound design), and Tim Reid (video design).
1984 comes to A.R.T. after a run in London's West End. The production is presented in association with Headlong, Almeida Theatre, and Nottingham Playhouse. Performances are scheduled to run through March 6.
