The Play
Staging 1984 as live theatre is a celebration of the work of one of the UK’s finest writers of the 20th century. Its purpose is to present a live recreation of the story and world of 1984 as seen through Orwell’s eyes.
Whilst the book has been adapted for film and t.v. stage versions up until now have been rare. Perhaps the reason is that to capture the depth and dark elements 1984 represent, become a limiting factor in a live presentation. How to get inside the mind of Winston Smith and present his struggle to break out of his confined existence offers a major challenge to any actor or director.
The world of 1984 is big; it operates on multi levels of consciousness and therefore it needs be big to make a serious impact to challenge its audience. The advantage of producing this play in the chosen environment is that it provides the opportunity to do exactly that.
Working with Ekspan Ltd, the Open Door Theatre Company has a unique and rare opportunity to work as an artist does with a complete blank canvas (in this case a canvas of some 15,000 square feet). Whilst there are some obvious logistical challenges, nevertheless the available space removes many of the limitations of a conventional theatre venue.
The world of 1984 is a hard place where the citizens work hard, for long hours with very little reward. Sheffield is a steel city with an underlying culture of hard work and endeavour. In the hey day of the steel industry, Sheffield steel formed a backbone to the both the UK and the wider world economy in the increasing demands for producing things. Whilst the world has changed to more global based economies, Sheffield still stands as a beacon to achievement and innovation.
This said, putting 1984 on as a play at a working factory venue right in the heart of Sheffield’s industrial heritage seems appropriate to the city and to the work itself.
It is the intention of all concerned to build and create the world of 1984 into which the audience will enter. We wish this to become an experience rather than a simple entertainment for all to enjoy.
