Withintheatre is a theatre company that brings together creatives from countries under authoritarian regimes, where they are not given freedom of speech. Thus, a reimagining of 1984 seems an apt choice for this company. Taking the character of Julia and imaging what her life was like beyond the end of Orwell’s novel, this show was unique, innovative, and intense.
The use of symbolism was the highlight of this performance for me. From the clown makeup used to signify conformity to the Big Brother regime, to the obvious but imperative Big Brother eye that watched over the stage the entire performance, the use of symbols was well thought out and intentional. The motif of clown imagery running throughout the show was a harsh contrast with the intense brutality of The Ministry of Love, which worked exceptionally well in creating an unsettling atmosphere.
As any play about a totalitarian regime should be, Julia. 1984 was uncomfortable to watch. It was strange, violent, and erotic, but became particularly uncomfortable when the character of O’Brien began directly interacting with the audience. By completely dismantling the fourth wall, there was nothing for the audience to hide behind, rendering them victim to the authoritarian regime in the same way as the characters. Theatre is not always about comfortably enjoying a show, sometimes it is about being made to squirm and confront distressing ideas, and this show certainly achieved that effect.
Unfortunately, I felt that Julia’s character fell a bit flat. Her delivery of lines paled in comparison to the passionate and borderline manic O’Brien. While she may simply be a more subdued character, this contrast did make her feel somewhat monotone. And without any true insights into her thoughts or feelings, it became hard to connect with her and understand her development beyond Orwell’s novel. I wish that she had been given an internal opinion that the audience were privy to, thus giving a new voice to a character which Orwell previously rendered virtually voiceless.
Overall, this show was innovative and striking in its imagery. It certainly wasn’t a laid-back, easy-going theatre experience, and even though I was left somewhat wanting with Julia’s character, it was definitely an interesting and worthwhile performance.
Julia. 1984 is running until 11 August at the Main Hall at Summerhall.
Buy tickets here.
Image provided to The Student by withintheatre.