GEORGE Orwell's 1984 at the Charter Theatre, Preston, is running to Saturday, March 23

THIS production grabs your attention with its violence, its raw energy and the scope of its ambition.

'1984' - the Northern Stage Ensemble's take on George Orwell's novel - graphically portrays the writer's hellish vision of a totalitarian Britain with use of massive video screens, film sequences and powerful audio.

Winston Smith, rebels against the all-seeing and all-knowing Big Brother when he falls in love with fellow worker at the Ministry of Truth, Julia.

They manage a few stolen meetings in which to exchange their hatred of The Party and to make passionate love.

But their private rebellion is destined to failure and Winston is taken away to be taught how to obey Big Brother and to meet his ultimate fear in Room 101.

Will Big Brother manage to rid Winston of his humanity and betray his love for Julia?

The play is not recommended for the under-15s and is indeed violent and harrowing.

In the torture sequences you feel every punch and every shock Winston goes through.

But the violence is not unjustified as it alerts you to how governments throughout the world still use torture and oppression today to hold on to power and punish dissenters.

And with spin doctors battling over information and playing such a central role in our government today the themes of 1984 are still very relevant.

You leave the theatre shaken but stirred.

'1984' runs at The Charter Theatre tonight (Thursday), Friday and Saturday, starting at 7.30pm.

Call 01772 258858 for booking information.