Orwell: The Road to 1984, adapted and directed by Guy Smith, Jack Studio Theatre | 06 to 10 October 2026. ⭐⭐⭐ Review by Indigo Cleverley

Orwell: The Road to 1984

adapted and directed by Guy Smith

Jack Studio Theatre | 06 to 10 October 2026

⭐⭐⭐ Review by Indigo Cleverley

“Insightful storytelling, however, lacks some purpose.”

George Orwell is widely regarded as one of the most influential modern writers, best known for the satirical parable Animal Farm and the speculative dystopian Nineteen Eighty-Four, but perhaps what goes unrecognised is his turbulent life and experiences which permeate through his writing and encourage him to comment on socio-political issues. This production brings these experiences, which Orwell wrote about in his many essays and books, to the stage and to life.

Opening with Orwell lying sick in a hospital bed in 1950, it’s evident that he is approaching his final weeks, or even days, and he seems compelled to explain his life and key memories. Launching straight into an anecdote from his schooldays, it’s unclear what the format is - whether the anecdotes and narration are what Orwell is writing in his hospital bed or whether he is just speaking aloud and reminiscing. Nevertheless, we’re introduced to Orwell’s character and humour, gradually becoming more familiar as the stories progress.

It’s only in the last 20 minutes that Orwell’s writing is discussed; although there are moments and locations which tie into his publications, there is no direct mention of his books until 1945 when Orwell discusses his troubles in finding a publisher for Animal Farm. It would be interesting to explore his growth as a writer through his novels and how they tie into his life and location as Orwell spends a lot of time in different places for a myriad of reasons.

Mark Stratford is compelling as the English novelist, conveying his passion for writing, his condemnation for totalitarian regimes and feelings of guilt and remorse as an imperial police officer in Burma, recalling a evocative memory of having to shoot and kill an elephant. Stratford is successful in presenting Orwell’s evolution and influences of being face to face with abuses of power and authority whilst also introducing us to his witty, charismatic nature.

Chloe Park’s sound design is effective in creating rhythm to accommodate moments of rising pressure, establishing a palpable tension within the theatre. Music is also used to stimulate Orwell delving into memories, most significantly with ‘Oranges and Lemons’, a significant song in Nineteen Eighty-Four.

An engaging insight into the life of George Orwell, with materials adapted from his essays and books, this production is a personal reminder of the dynamic, purposeful nature of Orwell’s writing and his precise forewarning of the future of truth, freedom and expression - his words become more relevant by the day, this production rightfully highlights the discernible irony.

In just eighty minutes, this production explores key aspects of George Orwell’s life and observations that moulded his journey as a writer, through insightful storytelling, however lacks some purpose and intention as a performance and would be interesting to explore the impact of his relationships and friendships further.

Cast

Mark Stratford - George Orwell

Creatives

Writer/Adaptor - Guy Smith (additional material by Mark Stratford)

Director - Guy Smith

Sound Design - Chloe Park

Technical Assistance - James Connor