1984

@immersive1984's adaptation of George Orwell's #classic takes us on an #immersive journey throughout #hackneytownhall’s council chamber to undergo the initiation process to become a member in The Ministry of Truth, responsible for propaganda in #BigBrother's totalitarian state...👁️

You might think joining the ranks of the notorious Ministry wouldn't be all that fun, but think again: the bar is open & Victory Gin rations have conveniently been increased to soothe us for the journey afoot while we listen to some #livejazz 🍸🎶 After a staunch rendition of Oceania’s national anthem, we go through the chambers to learn the nitty-gritty of the Party’s mass surveillance & the treatment given to renegades…

Co-directed by Richard Hahlo & Jem Wall, this site-specific experience is no #sleepnomore, create-your-own-journey ride. Audiences are expertly directed across three scenes in speedily assembled makeshift sets designed by Jeroen van Dooren. Take Julia & Winston’s room— a diligently designed pocket space that evokes the slightest detail specified in #Orwell's world, from Emmanuel Goldstein’s book📖 to an old-timey record player...

A three-hander, the gripping cast holds steadfast to the #rulesoftheworld we're plunged into & captivates us at every turn, from Jude Akuwudlike’s undeniably enthralling rendition of O'Brien as an eloquent politician, to Kit Reeve's & Declan Rogers' brilliant depictions of newly uncovered thought criminals, Julia & Winston🚨 Expertly pre-filmed ‘surveillance’ footage & propaganda material dazzle throughout as well, plunging us deeper into this terrifying dystopia...

Our only itch (guilty of thoughtcrime, we are) comes in the form of the (in)famous torture scene. The audience's overt implication in The Party’s morally questionable actions (#nospoilers) leaves a sour taste. But, hey, that might be precisely the point of the piece🎯…

"1984" remains piercingly relevant in times when media disinformation spreads like rapid fire & #identitypolitics often compels us to take a side📲 In all, this riveting rendition of #1984 is yet another harrowing reminder of what could unravel without nuanced critical analysis & freedom of thought…4/5⭐