An impulsive journalist who has never written a song in his life has created a unique cabaret-style tribute to George Orwell complete with original tunes.

Peter Cordwell, 64, was spontaneously moved to write a show celebrating Orwell through recitation, music and song after re-reading the author’s work three years ago.

And after a stroke of luck teamed him with musician/songwriter Carl Picton 18 months ago, it seems the pair may have a smash-hit on their hands.

Set to entertain audiences at Greenwich Theatre, Peter’s Orwellian extravaganza features special guest voice Geordie Greig – Evening Standard editor – who recorded extracts as George in his perfect Etonian accent.

Peter told Vibe: “My son Alex got the juices flowing when he read and loved Down and Out three or four years ago, inspiring me to get back into the great man.

“I’m spurred by little ideas from time to time.

“I read or re-read all the books again and all the essays (including one about how to make a nice cup of tea), and was just bowled over.

“I wanted to get across the man himself, not just the two famous books (Animal Farm and 1984).

“There can hardly be a richer subject for musical theatre than George Orwell and his books and essays, plus a wonderfully maverick existence.”

Once Peter got the idea to create his musical he mentioned it to James Haddrell, artistic and executive director at Greenwich Theatre, who encouraged him to go for it.

Peter, from Lee, added: “Once he said that I thought of ways to do it.

“I had no background in music or theatre, couldn’t play an instrument and was grabbed by the ear at primary school for being tone deaf – but the idea was there.”

And Peter discovered the perfect intro in Orwell’s christened name.

He continued: “I needed a good start and got one.

“The first line of the first song came to me almost straight away - ‘His name was Eric Blair/but the likeness stops right there.’

“That’s when I thought ‘you might have something here.’”

Peter had a stab at writing lyrics to three songs, but found he desperately needed the help of an experienced musician if his show was going to be a success.

Thankfully he stumbled across Carl Picton’s father outside Sainsbury’s in Lee and told him of his predicament.

In a fluke move, the duo was introduced and Carl began dismantling Peter’s songs and putting them back together again, teaching the writer about syllables in music and how to write the perfect tunes.

Peter said: “It’s been ‘wow’ all along really.

“Finding Carl was the key – it’s more or less flown from there.”

Since teaming up, Carl and Peter have taught a Georgie workshop at Negus Sixth Form College in Plumstead during a performance art class.

Now, the 17 and 18-year-olds will be joining them on stage for choruses and to perform their very own song Nice Cup of Tea, singing and dancing dressed as tramps.

“It was a real boost.” Peter added.

The unique show is running for four nights between Thursday April 26 and Sunday April 29 at 7.30pm.

“I’m the kind of person who doesn’t worry about anything.” Peter said.

“If it flops it’s been one of the most enjoyable things I’ve ever done – but I don’t think it’s going to flop.”

Tickets are available from £10.

For bookings visit greenwichtheatre.org.uk