Green Hope’s theatre department has taken on a bold and thought-provoking production for this year’s fall play: “1984” by George Orwell. This play is known for its intense themes of government control, censorship, and showcases an example of a totalitarian society. It typically challenges the audience to think about the value of freedom in today’s society, and is scheduled to be performed on Oct 16 and 17, 2025.
Lathan Joof (‘26) has been cast to play the lead protagonist of this play, Winston Smith. Winston questions the oppressive regime he lives in, and comes off as a bold character for the dystopian society of 1984. Joof mentioned that this role is more than another character he gets to play, but also a representation of years of his work in Green Hope Theatre. “Theatre has been a blessing in my life.” Joof stated. “It’s been a good feeling to have my voice heard through all the opportunities theatre has given me.”
Joof explained that he hopes to carry the character of Winston by maintaining his complexity while also adding his own enthusiasm and uniqueness to it. “Winston believes that in the society he lives in, he has to act a certain way in order to survive.” he revealed. “Once I started to understand his character more deeply, I have been having a blast with it… I hope to bring a part of my African American heritage and excellence into this role.”
Along with many other students involved in this production, this cast also includes Aura Pugeda as Julia, Sarah George as O’Brien, Zacharie Campbell as Loudspeaker, Danielle Sanchez as Parson, Jorian Holst as Syme, and Kat Walker as the Landlady. This cast list brings recognized talent to the forefront of the Green Hope community with many experienced upperclassmen being a part of the production.
Joof goes on to highlight the importance of other roles of theatre that truly bring a production to life, and that theatre is far from a one-man show. “It really takes all parts of theatre for a play to come together. Sadly, we don’t get to interact with the tech team much, but I always want to make sure they feel celebrated and welcome in this play too.” Joof said.
He specifically mentioned the role of Emily Mowers, another student involved with props and technical theatre works, noting how much she contributes to the behind-the-scenes of this theatre production as a whole. He hopes that the contributions of these staff members will not go unnoticed in the production.
With powerful performances and meaningful messages, the Green Hope Theatre team hopes to bring the play to life and leave a lasting impression on the school’s community.
