War is Peace, Ignorance is Strength, Freedom is…..
Skin of our Teeth Productions presents George Orwell’s “198(4)”

Award winning Skin of our Teeth Productions is thrilled to announce its first production for 2025 – 198(4) – written by George Orwell, adapted by Dr Christine Davey and directed by Glen Barton.
This much-anticipated production will be staged for one night only on Saturday 15 March at the Yea Butter Factory. Set in a dystopian world where government surveillance, manipulation of truth, and absolute power reign, Orwell’s
198(4) explores the struggle of the individual against the oppressive forces of the Party. This powerful, thought-provoking play paints a chilling portrait of a society under constant scrutiny, where free will and thought are suffocated
in the name of control.

Christine Davey’s adaptation is an innovative retelling Orwell’s seminal work, capturing the essence of the original novel while translating its themes leaving audiences spellbound. The play brings to life the compelling story of Win
Smith, an ordinary person who dares to challenge the totalitarian regime of Oceania, and their relationship with Jay, their fellow rebel. Together, they seek truth in a society that has redefined the very meaning of reality.
The cast is led by a talented ensemble of actors (Anastasia Sidorova, Lachie Errey, Rachel Edmonds, Mary Steuten, Damian Ng, Joanna Lusty and Christine Davey) who bring a mix of energy and vulnerability to the stage. Each
member of the cast plays multiple roles, offering a dynamic portrayal of the multifaceted characters that populate the dystopian world.

Under the direction of Glen Barton, who is known for his ability to delve deeply into complex, dark material, the production promises to captivate the audience and provoke reflection on contemporary societal issues.
Barton, who has been with Skin of our Teeth Productions for several years, is excited to be working on 198(4), a play he describes as both timely and timeless. “Orwell’s vision of the future remains a powerful lens through which we can
examine our present,” he says. “Christine’s inclusive and modern adaption explores freedom, truth, and the role of the individual in society is more relevant than ever, especially in our modern era of information overload and surveillance.”

The production is designed to immerse the audience in the harsh, oppressive world of 198(4) through minimalist yet striking set designs and lighting. The use of projections will enhance the feeling of constant surveillance, reminding the
audience that in this world, no one is ever truly free. 198(4) is more than just a political commentary; it is a human story about the search for truth, love, hope andindividuality in the face of overwhelming oppression. “This is a story about the power of the human spirit, even in the
darkest of times,” says Barton. “It’s a story that calls us to question the forces that shape our lives and ourperceptions.”

Skin of our Teeth Productions is in its tenth year and has built a reputation for bringing bold and thought-provoking
works to the stage. 198(4) is sure to be one of their most compelling productions to date.

Event details:
When: Saturday 15 March, 2025
Where: Yea Butter Factory, 13 Rattray Street, Yea
Tickets: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1339634