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Acknowledgement of Traditional Custodians

We pay our respects to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ancestors of this land, their spirits and their legacy. The foundations laid by these ancestors give strength, inspiration and courage to current and future generations, both First Nations and non-First Nations peoples, towards creating a better Queensland.

  • …
  • What’s On
  • 2025
  • 1984 by George Orwell
1984 by George Orwell
  • Theatre

shakestir198425 1984 by George Orwell QPAC, Shake & Stir Theatre Co Theatre 1984 by George Orwell Adapted by Shake & Stir

29 Oct - 9 Nov 2025
Playhouse
Buy Tickets
From $69 *
* A transaction fee of $7.50 applies.
1 hour 40 minutes
no interval, subject to change without notice

Overview

Big Brother is back.

Strap in for an electrifying take on the George Orwell classic – from the multi-award winning creative minds at Shake & Stir (Frankenstein, Jane Eyre, Animal Farm and Dracula).

It was a bright cold day, and the clocks were striking thirteen...

Winston Smith, an editor at the Ministry of Truth, sits quietly. A quick swig of gin; a glance of quiet optimism toward the telescreen. Winston opens his diary, puts pen to paper, and in doing so, commits the essential crime that contains all others in itself. A radical and unprecedented act of rebellion.

Discovered, entrapped, and incarcerated in the Ministry of Love, Winston, in defending his burning desire for personal freedom, prepares for the fight of his life. Can the oppressive forces of The Party, led by BIG BROTHER, obliterate the indomitable human spirit?

And what exactly awaits within Room 101?

Important Information

Warning

This production contains mature themes, simulated violence, strobe lighting and loud sound effects/music. 

Age Recommendation

Recommended for ages 14+.

Celebrate 40 Years of QPAC and Win!

Purchase a ticket at QPAC in 2025 and go in the draw to win a Hyundai TUCSON Hybrid, thanks to Hyundai – proud Principal Partner of QPAC.

To enter the competition, submit an entry form via the QPAC 40 Giveaway competition page. Terms and conditions apply.

Playhouse Visual and Sensory Guide

The Playhouse Visual and Sensory Guide [PDF, 2 MB] provides information on what you can expect while visiting QPAC.

Official ticketing service for QPAC

QTIX is our official ticketing service with selected packages sold through authorised resellers only. Read more about purchasing tickets online.

Groups 4+

Great discounts available for Groups of 4+ on weekend performances (Friday to Sunday). 

Must purchase 4 or more tickets, for the same performance and within the same transaction. Select "Group 4+" in your basket from the drop down option.

Bring your group to the theatre and receive assistance with available seating allocation.

Make a group booking

Great discounts available for school groups. 1 complimentary ticket for a teacher per 10 school children.

A-Reserve $39

Make a school booking

Education Notes

Suitability: Years 9 to 12
  • An excellent adaptation.
    The Scoop
  • Delivered with precision and inventiveness.
    Stage Whispers
  • This production is top shelf.
    The Blurb
  • ★★★★★
    ArtsHub
  • ★★★★★
    Melbournise Me
  • Tripleplusgood.
    The Courier-Mail
  • Shake & Stir sets the bar high.
    Sydney Morning Herald
  • Doubleplusawesome.
    Aussie Theatre
  • Shake & Stir cement themselves as masters of adaption with 1984.
    Australian Stage
  • One of the most carefully integrated productions I’ve experienced. Orwell – superbly realised on stage.
    The Border Mail

Gallery

  • Abhilash Kaimal, Michael Whalley, Chloe Bayliss, David Whitney & Steven RookeJoel Devereux
  • Michael Whalley & David WhitneyJoel Devereux
  • Michael Whalley & Chloe BaylissJoel Devereux
  • Abhilash Kaimal, Steven Rooke, Michael Whalley, Chloe Bayliss & David WhitneyJoel Devereux
  • Michael Whalley & Chloe BaylissJoel Devereux
  • Abhilash Kaimal & Michael WhalleyJoel Devereux
  • Michael WhalleyJoel Devereux
  • Michael Whalley & Steven RookeJoel Devereux

Creatives

  • Adaptors Nelle Lee & Nick Skubij
  • Director Michael Futcher
  • Creative Producer Ross Balbuziente
  • Designer Josh McIntosh
  • Lighting Designer Jason Glenwright
  • Sound Designer Guy Webster
  • Video Designer Craig Wilkinson
  • Fight & Intimacy Director Nigel Poulton

Cast

  • Chloe Bayliss, Tony Cogin, Abhilash Kaimal, Steven Rooke, Michael Whalley

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