OPRF Theatre Brings 1984 to the Stage February 26-28

This spring, Oak Park and River Forest High School’s Little Theatre will present 1984, a stage adaptation of George Orwell’s renowned novel. Guided by a student-centered cast and creative team, the production offers audiences a compelling theatrical experience grounded in language, storytelling, and performance.

Directed by James Bell, the production remains closely aligned with the original text, allowing the story to unfold on its own terms. “It’s a really strong piece of writing,” Bell said. “If we do what’s on the page, the story takes care of itself.”

Set in a dystopian world shaped by strict control and constant surveillance, 1984 follows Winston Smith, an office worker whose job is to help revise and reduce language in the service of a powerful governing system known as Big Brother. As words disappear, so do individuality and personal freedom.

At the center of the story is Winston’s growing awareness that something about the world around him is not quite right, an awareness that deepens when he forms a forbidden relationship with a coworker named Julia. Their connection becomes a central thread in a society that discourages independent thought and personal relationships.

One of the elements that continues to make 1984 especially compelling, according to Bell, is its focus on language itself. “The way language is stripped down and controlled is fascinating,” he said. “When words disappear, so do the ways people can express ideas, feelings, and questions. That tension drives the entire play.”

Though rehearsals are still in their early stages, students are already engaging deeply with the material. Some are familiar with the novel, while others are encountering the story for the first time. Early rehearsals emphasize exploration and understanding as students build the play's world together. “Right now, we’re asking a lot of questions about the world the characters live in,” Bell said. “That process helps students really understand what’s happening onstage.”

Rather than delivering a single takeaway, 1984 is designed as an immersive theatrical experience that allows the story and images to linger. “I try to leave people with images,” Bell said. “If something from the show stays with you after you leave the theatre, that’s a good thing.” That approach reflects OPRF’s commitment to cultivating curiosity, creativity, and communication skills that students develop through the arts and carry with them well beyond the stage.

The cast of 1984 reflects the diversity of the OPRF student body, an intentional priority for the theatre program. “I want my shows to look like this building,” Bell said. “When students see themselves represented on stage, it opens doors.” Students will also experiment with projection, lighting, and other technical elements to help create the stark world of 1984, highlighting collaboration across performance and technical theatre.

1984 will be performed Feb. 26–28 at 7 p.m. and Feb. 28 at 3 p.m. and in OPRF’s Little Theatre.

Productions like 1984 highlight the strength of OPRF’s performing arts program and the dedication of students and staff who bring ambitious stories to life. “Every year, I’m amazed by the talent here,” Bell said. “It’s an honor to work with students who are discovering new skills and new confidence through theatre.”

We invite the community to join us in supporting and celebrating the work of our student artists.

Get your tickets today!