• What: George Orwell’s 1984, performed by Second Story Theatre: GISS’s Acting 11/12 • Who: Gulf Islands Secondary School, Acting 11/12 class.
NB: This production incorporates original, live music.
• When: ArtSpring on Salt Spring Island, Jan. 12-13, 2017, 7:30 PM.
Not recommended for young audiences. (This is a mature production that may be inappropriate for young audiences. 1984 is a spirited show that explores the themes of power, communication, and psychological struggle.
1984
Imagine a world where freedom of thought has been completely abolished. George Orwell’s 1984 depicts just that. In a brainwashed society, there is no hope for freedom, love, or self expression, until a young man named Winston Smith (Kevin Gray), begins to have thoughts and feelings he has never known before, and meets an unusual girl named Julia (Shaye Steele). Who, like him, is different. Winston and Julia begin a fight against the all knowing, powerful leader Big Brother. In their heroic attempt to free society they will be tested in ways they never could have imagined.
The GISS Senior Acting Class chose 1984 as our production because it has never been more relevant than it is today. We found so many similarities in the use of technology and propaganda, with what we are exposed to in our everyday lives, that 1984 seemed like a choice that would hit home for everyone involved. 1984 is an exciting, thought-provoking show that you do not want to miss. Remember, Big Brother is watching you!
Producing a play of this magnitude has been a tremendous challenge for these students. The Acting 11/12 course is based around development of acting skill and stage presence, and involves believably portraying honest, human, emotions, to tell the truth from a particular character’s perspective.
This is topical~ our current global-political climate involves a “you’re with us or against us” inquisition which resonates metaphorically throughout this play (especially given an institution’s tendency towards brutal conformity). Further, revolution and ambition are characteristics passionately important to this group of young people.