1984 HERE AND NOW

1984 Here and Now

This was my first time attending a play in a black box theater. 1984 Here and Now is written by Kee Thuan Chye, adapted from George Orwell's novel 1984. This play is written to criticize the Mahathir government and its oppressive rule. Besides, he also criticized the racial discrimination in our country. 

In this play, they showed us that in the year of 1984, all Malaysians are under the control of the "Big Brother". No matter what the political party or the government have said, the citizens HAVE TO believe or obey. If one does not obey and tries to go against the political party or the government, he/she will face some cruel consequences like what this play have shown us that at the end of the play, the main character, Wiran is forced to admit his guilt of disobeying "Big Brother" and apologize to "Big Brother" publicly. He is then tortured severely and threatened by the police as he does not admit his guilt (HE HAS DONE NOTHING WRONG TBH).

When I was watching the torturing scene of the play, somehow I immediately think of Teoh Beng Hock's case (as I am currently doing assignment regarding lack of knowledge of human rights based on his case). Unfortunately, nobody will know what he had faced when he was locked in the custody. However, a few weeks ago, I saw an article at the Remembrance as Resistance Human Rights Art Exhibition. It showed us the list of rights under custody. I personally feel that the torturing scene of this play can somehow related or linked to this issue (lack of knowledge of human rights) too.

Rights under Custody

I was very glad that I had this opportunity to attend and watch this play. I liked it very much (although the truth hurts). The settings, props, lighting, sound effects of the play and the acting skill of the talents are so professional and amazing! After watching this play, I feel really thankful to those who are very brave to stand up and voice out for a better Malaysia. It really takes huge courage to do so. I sincerely pray for a better Malaysia in the future.

RM20 and it is definitely worth it!