Riverside Theatres is currently host to a world-class, spine-tingling production of 1984, an adaptation of George Orwell’s iconic novel by Orson Welles, brought to life by the brilliant Shake & Stir Theatre Co. Even if you’ve never read the book, the themes totalitarian control, surveillance, and the distortion of truth that are so deeply embedded in our culture that the story hits home immediately. This version is not only relevant but also emotionally arresting, with every element working in harmony to deliver a gripping theatrical experience.
From the very first scene, I was hooked. Normally, I drift during live theatre, but this production held me tight from start to finish. A major standout was the use of multimedia—stunning, cinematic visuals projected on massive screens, making Big Brother’s presence feel inescapable. These visuals weren’t just background, they were woven into the storytelling in a way that made the surveillance feel terrifyingly immersive. Seeing Winston’s internal rebellion expressed on screen while his physical form shrank in defiance onstage was hauntingly effective.
Directed by Michael Futcher (Jane Eyre), the production features an outstanding cast: Michael Whalley (Harry Potter and the Cursed Child), Chloe Bayliss (Doctor Doctor), David Whitney (The Wharf Revue), and Tony Cogin (Frankenstein). Shake & Stir’s Artistic Director Nick Skubij put it best: the chilling parallels between Orwell’s dystopia and our world today make this more than just a period piece – it’s a mirror.
The acting was phenomenal. The performers fully committed, making every moment visceral. I recoiled, flinched, and gasped throughout. The infamous rat torture scene was so intensely acted I had to cover my eyes. And Winston’s gut-wrenching betrayal of his love? Devastating. Honestly, I would have sent my husband’s exact Life360 location and thrown him under the bus long before the rats came out. That scene was so good.
Riverside Theatre is a stunning venue right on the Parramatta River—easy to get to via ferry from Circular Quay or the M4 tunnel. Great dining nearby (just don’t park at Novotel unless you take out a second mortgage!). It is well worth the trip to see such an incredible stage event.
FIVE STARS (OUT OF FIVE)
1984 plays at Riverside Theatres until Saturday 26th July. Tickets can be purchased here.
