New stage version of Orwell’s 1984 comes to Manchester’s Royal Exchange

Feb 11 2010 Flintshire Chronicle

AN ELECTRIFYING new stage version of George Orwell’s nightmare vision of a totalitarian society, 1984, launches the new spring-summer season at the Royal Exchange Theatre in Manchester.

Hailed as an instant classic upon its publication in 1949, 1984 is now seen by many as the definitive novel of the 20th century.

Central character Winston Smith rewrites history for the Ministry of Truth, but when he’s handed a note that says simply ‘I love you’, by a woman he hardly knows, he decides to risk everything in a search for the real truth.

With the government always watching, can Winston possibly hold on to what he feels inside, or will he renounce everything, accept The Party’s reality, and learn to love Big Brother?

Oldham-born actor, director and playwright Matthew Dunster directs his own new adaptation of the original Orwell novel.

His recent Exchange credits include Macbeth and his own award-winning play You Can See The Hills in The Studio.

The cast includes Jonathan McGuiness, Caroline Bartleet and Matthew Flynn. 1984 can be seen at the Royal Exchange from February 24-March 27. Visit the website: www.royalexchange.co.uk or ring 0161 833 9833.