George Orwell’s 1984 dystopian novel, comes to Hackney Town Hall, London. Adapted by Adam Taub, it is co-directed by Richard Hahlo and Jem Wall as an immersive experience running from 19th October to 26th November.
In an age of surveillance when everything you say or do is scrutinised, your innermost thoughts are probed, you cannot be too careful. In this age when we are being constantly tracked and monitored, Orwell’s vision has never been closer to reality.
In the magnificent Hackney Town Hall, you can experience this gripping story.
The Artiscape spoke to Declan Rodgers who portrays Winston.
What attracted you to the script of 1984?
Rodgers: Well, firstly I really love Orwell’s novel. I first read the book around 2009, and it’s a story that has always stayed with me. I found it very thought provoking and often found myself referring to it over the years as various global affairs played out and governmental influences became more apparent.
When I first read Adam’s adaptation of the novel I was astounded by his ability to adeptly distill this intricate narrative into a script whilst also preserving the core essence and societal warnings that George Orwell had woven so beautifully into the original story.
Is there anything you can relate to in the character you play?
Rodgers: As an actor portraying Winston, I find his humanity and universal struggles very relatable.
Love is at the heart of Winston’s story and I think all of us, as human beings, can relate to Winston and his yearning to find a meaningful connection with someone in life.
I also think that his struggle for individual freedom and the resilience he shows to resist oppressive forces resonates with our shared human experiences.
What are you most looking forward to in performing in the play?
Rodgers: I’m most excited about crafting a journey and telling a story that fully immerses the audience, creating a thought-provoking experience for all.
This production presents a unique chance to transport viewers into the unsettling world of ‘1984,’ allowing them to experience the tension and, crucially, to become active participants in Winston’s story.
What do you think an audience will like about this play?
Rodgers: As this show is truly immersive, the audience will become complicit in Winston’s experiences, so I think that when audiences come to see the show, they will likely appreciate how it transcends traditional theatre.
Hackney Town Hall is also the perfect setting for this show – it is beautiful and has that art deco, ornate feel of what we might imagine Orwell’s governmental buildings to have in his world of ‘1984’.
I think the show will also feel quite intimate, which should hopefully lead to a feeling of deeper connection with the characters, and maybe inspire a lingering sense of introspection and/or thought-provoking conversation long after the audiences have left our world of ‘1984’.
To book tickets to 1984, visit the website
Trailer: 1984
