451
By Periplum
451 combines immersive sound and sensory theatre to depict a dystopic society where literature is outlawed and acts of violence are rewarded. Inspired by Ray Bradbury’s visionary novel Fahrenheit 451, this incendiary outdoor performance recounts the story of a society in which books are banned and firemen are employed to burn them. Bradbury’s classic text has proven prophetic, reflected in the rise of the ipad, surveillance, interactive media, the televised pursuit of fugitives, and the continuing radical power of the written word. As we witness a rise in monitoring and attacks on freedom of expression we might even believe that there could be a future where books may once again hold a secret knowledge…
“The faceless fire fighters, atop giant wheeled ladders roll relentlessly through the crowd with screaming whistles, flame-throwers and searchlights, hunting for dissidents...”
— Liz Allum, British Theatre Guide
“...satisfying an audience’s desire for pyrotechnics and finding a genuine reason to deliver them.”
— Lyn Gardner, The Guardian
Designed, written and directed by Claire Raftery & Damian Wright (Periplum)
Produced by Corn Exchange Newbury.
Funded by Arts Council England. Built at 101 Outdoor Arts Creation Space. Commissioned by Without Walls Street Arts Consortium, Brighton Festival, Greenwich & Docklands Festival, and Norfolk & Norwich Festival.
Photography: Raysto
