GEORGE Orwell's 1984 portrays a dystopian society, controlled by an oligarchical government, where a select few make the rules for all.

Power and control rule the day.

When Orwell wrote his novel in 1948 he painted a frightening picture of how the world could be in years to come.

Adapted for theatre by Matthew Dunster, Burneside Amateur Theatrical Society's next production brings Orwell’s chilling vision of Big Brother and the totalitarian state of Oceania to The Bryce stage from May 28-30.

And director Gordon Lawson says 1984 is definitely the society's most challenging production to date. "It's not just the human themes of love and betrayal having to be acted out by the cast, but the technical requirements of live video feeds, recorded video inserts, projection and lighting effects, all having to be controlled by a talented bunch of techies behind the scene.

"The production is looking great at this stage," adds Gordon, "with actors really getting into the dialogue and, more critically, the emotion of the piece.

"It's a big ask for amateur performers to push them to deliver Orwell's vision of forbidden love within his totalitarian world, and the tragic aftermath of the discovery of Winston and Julia's relationship.

"But deliver they do, together with the rest of a talented amateur cast."

Adam Carruthers takes the role of Winston, Julia is played by Louise Bell and Duncan Cramphorn plays the part of O'Brien.

Box office 07792-777213.