An entirely new experience is hitting Norwich Theatre, taking over our Beyond stage at Carrow House, which invites the audience into the action by playing an interactive. But what is it all about? Read on to find out.
What is 1884?
1884 is an immersive and interactive show, about an important moment in history; the Berlin Conference of 1884 that changed Africa forever.
How will the game be played?
You’ll be placed in small groups of up to 8 players. You’ll play a variety of games and creative challenges as a group. These are gentle interactive activities, and you can always choose to step back or opt out.
Most interaction will be with other participants, but there will be occasional verbal exchanges with performers. You never have to interact if you don’t want to, and you’ll never be singled out or forced to do anything uncomfortable.
What happens during the show?
You’ll be invited to live on Wilhelm Street, becoming part of a new “family.” As you settle in, you’ll soon realise that nearby, powerful people are making important decisions about your life, but you and your family are excluded from the room.
What was the Berlin Conference?
The Berlin Conference (1884–1885) brought together 14 European powers (and the U.S.) to regulate colonisation and trade in Africa—without African representation. The borders imposed at this conference ignored ethnic and cultural realities, paving the way for near-total European domination of the continent by 1900, with consequences still felt today.
Do I need to know anything about the Berlin Conference beforehand?
No. The show is designed so that no prior knowledge is required. It’s accessible, thought-provoking, and engaging for everyone.
Is this a history lesson?
Not exactly. While inspired by the Berlin Conference, 1884 is not a strict retelling. Instead, it presents a modern-day scenario that echoes those events, encouraging audiences to reflect on colonial legacies and what it means to be part of history, or left out of it.
Will there be a chance to reflect afterwards?
Yes. At the end of each performance, audiences will be invited to take part in a reflection and debrief session to explore questions raised by the show.
Who created 1884?
The show was developed by theatre-maker Rhianna Ilube, in collaboration with BAFTA-winning game-makers Coney, and produced with Koro. Rhianna’s time living in Berlin, where she witnessed grassroots activism highlighting this overlooked historical event, inspired the piece.
Grab your ticket to get involved by getting your ticket at norwichtheatre.org or by calling the Box Office on 01603 630 000.
