It is the Age of Total Surveillance

Everything you say or do is scrutinised.
Even your innermost thoughts are probed.
You cannot be too careful.

In an age when we are tracked and monitored, Orwell’s vision has never been closer to reality.

In the magnificent Hackney Town Hall, experience this gripping story.

Welcome to the Ministry of Truth

Immersive 1984

Cast & Creative

Cast

Creative Team

Richard Hahlo

Co-Director

Jem Wall

Co-Director

Thor McIntyre-Burnie

Sound Designer

Jonathan Simpson

Lighting Designer

Jeroen van Dooren

Set Designer

Adam Taub

Executive Producer

James Dawson

Production Manager

Naomi Shanson

Stage Manager

Tom Sergeant

Technical Stage Manager

Natalie Evans

Technical Swing

Madeleine Wilson

Producer

Tandem Marketing Worldwide

Marketing

Kate Morley PR

Press

Hero Social

Social Media

Amalia Vitale

Movement Director

Jonathan Waller

Fight Director

Christina Fulcher

Intimacy Director

Karo Chrzanowska

Front of House Manager

Bryony Purdue

Jazz Musician

Ivy Knights

Jazz Musician

Louise Messenger

Jazz Musician

Akil Henry

Accompanist

Barny Jones

Accompanist

Chris Jerome

Accompanist

Ms Daniella Teal

Accompanist

Sam Watts

Accompanist

Tash Pan

Accompanist

Thomas McBrien

Accompanist

Critical Acclaim

“This is a perfect adaptation of Orwell’s 1984, I urge you to see this performance as soon as possible.”

Theatre and Tonic

“Truly remarkable, it speaks to our lives and the world we have allowed to build up around us.”

Broadway Baby

“Bold, necessary and engaging.”

Arts Desk

“A memorable theatrical experience.”

West End Evenings

“A riveting rendition. 1984 remains piercingly relevant.”

Fringe Biscuit

FAQs

When are the shows?

The production runs from 19 October – 17 December 2023.

There are two shows every evening except for Mondays:

Tuesday – Saturday: 19:00 & 21:00

Sunday: 17:30 & 19:30

What to expect?

This is an immersive show in which you will experience George Orwell’s dystopian vision in an entirely new way. The performance takes place in several locations around Hackney Town Hall including its magnificent Council Chamber. You will follow the action from location to location.

The show also contains some optional interaction.

If you require reading glasses, we kindly ask that you bring these along, thank you.

Can I take photos or videos?

The use of cameras and mobile phones is strictly prohibited.

Can I keep my mobile phone with me?

Before the show begins, we ask that all mobiles are switched off / placed on silent, given the quiet intimate nature of the show.

In an emergency, one of the ushers will guide you to the lobby to use your phone.

Where is the venue?

Hackney Town Hall, Mare Street, Hackney, London, E8 1EA.

How do I get to Hackney Town Hall?

Full travel information is available on the venue page.

How long is the show?

The bar opens 30 mins before the performance begins and sets the atmosphere for the show but is not essential to the plot. The performance lasts approximately 75 minutes.

What are the show times?

Tuesday – Saturday: 19:00 & 21:00

Sunday: 17:30 & 19:30

The bar opens 30 mins before the performance begins and sets the atmosphere for the show but it is not essential to the plot.

Please arrive at least 15 minutes before the performance begins in order to pass registration and security.

Do I need to print my tickets?

No, we take either digital or printed tickets.

Is there a bar?

Yes, the bar opens 30 minutes before the performance and sets the atmosphere for the show. The bar is card only and serves both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.

Do you allow latecomers?

There is a strict no latecomer policy for this show, due to its quiet intimate nature. Please ensure you leave plenty of time to arrive.

Doors open 30 minutes before the show starts and the show will begin promptly.

Please note: unfortunately we cannot offer refunds to any latecomers.

Are there any age restrictions?

16+ Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

This production includes depictions of torture and contains violence, loud noises (including gunshots), some scenes of a sexual nature and strobe and flashing lights.

What time should I arrive?

The bar opens 30 mins before the performance begins and sets the atmosphere for the show but it is not essential to the plot.

Please arrive at least 15 minutes before the performance begins in order to pass registration and security.

Is there a bag drop?

We have a small area to drop bags that are large or very heavy and cannot be carried around the performance with you.

There is a £2 charge per item. We do not accept cash.

Is the whole show standing?

No, most of the performance takes place in seated locations. One scene takes place standing and lasts approximately 10 mins but seats will be provided for those who need them.

Does the show involve walking?

Yes, the show takes place in several locations around Hackney Town Hall. All of the locations are indoors and you will walk between them. There are stairs between some of the locations but there are lifts for those who require them. Please see the details about accessibility below.

Is the show accessible?

We have two wheelchair spaces available for each performance and our front-of-house team can assist you during your visit. For more information, please contact [email protected].

What are the trigger warnings?

This production includes depictions of torture and contains violence, loud noises (including gunshots), some scenes of a sexual nature and strobe and flashing lights.

How can I contact you?

Our customer service team are available on [email protected]

Can I get a refund/exchange?

We allow exchanges, subject to availability, up to 48 hours ahead of a performance.

Please contact our ticketing team on: [email protected]

Is there a dress code?

There is no dress code but we recommend wearing shoes you are comfortable to walk around in – as the show moves from location to location around a building.