AD | Tickets gifted in exchange of an honest review
TW: This production contains haze, loud noises (including whips and gunshots), flashing lights and moments of very bright lighting. Age Guidance 11+
George Orwell's Animal Farm is marking its 80th anniversary in this new
co-production with Stratford East and association with Nottingham Playhouse. With recently being nominated at this years Olivier Awards, in the category for best new production in affiliate theatre. Animal Farm follows a group of animals who come together to fight their farmer and take it for themselves, and build a farm that is equal for all animals. But as time passes, a new leader is made and what starts off as a new happy farm, actually turns into a different version of what they had been fighting for, just with a different type of leader!
Directed by Amy Leach, and adapted by Tatty Hennessy Animal Farm is a dark but also intriguing piece of theatre.
Director Amy Leach does some great work. Leach's direction is effective, and with the collaboration from Movement Director Kane Husbands and Fight Director Kate Waters, the three create fight scenes between the animals and farmer that are strong and effective. With the addition of slow motion at points during the fight scenes, this results in adding more of a dramatic feel. The three collectively create fight scenes that are full of energetic intensity. Leach not only creates great fight scenes but brings great accessibility to the piece, with usage of incorporated BSL, which is nice and pleasing to see. With the cast signing, as well as having a BSL interpreter part of the action and feeling part of the story, the use of the BSL to the show added to the dialogue and added an extra powerfulness to the whole production. Leach directs the dark story and scenes that could be uncomfortable to watch at times, such as at the top of the show when we see Farmer, Mr Jones (played by Kaya Ulasli), being cruel to the animals. While Leach ensures tension is displayed throughout, as well as showing the shows other themes, Leach does display themes in a way that are carefully handle, but also in a clear manner. Leach breaks the intensity from time to time in the show with having Milo (Em Prendergast) who rides on a scooter who breaks the fourth wall while delivering funny dialogue, and what almost feels like it fills in the action, but with dialogue that simplifies and releases some of the intense scenes that came before. Leach's direction is pacey which results in keeping the action and the storyline flowing.
George Orwell's book is adapted by Tatty Hennessy. Hennessy adapts this classic and well known play for this production, in a way that is easily understandable for today's audiences. Hennessy writes what is gritty dialogue which supports the darkness of the shows themes, bringing intense moments such as when Squealer (played by Tom Simper) tries to persuade Clara (played by Brydie Service) to sell her eggs, or as she sees them her chicks, as well as heartfelt moments, such as between Clover (played by Tianah Hodding) and Clara, when the cold comes in Clara is trying to keep her chicks warm and safe, with the support of Clover. Hennessy also provides funny dialogue from Minty (played by Farshid Rokey who also gives a lively performance), which relieves some of the darkness. What is a powerful and also heart-breaking, at times, story, Tatty Hennessy adapts George Orwell's original book well, keeping audiences intrigued and engaged throughout.
Em Prendergast plays Milo who is funny and energetic through their moments on stage. Prendergast engages the audience through the character's dialogue, which seems like a playful monologue, that explains previous scenes in a way that is funny and feels like they are chatting to their friends and spreading gossip. Prendergast gives a lively performance who brings much needed laughter to the audience.
Tianah Hodding who plays Clover shows a caring character, especially to Clara. Hodding's character wants to show the animals how to come together, and this comes across really well in the way she interacts with the other cast members. Hodding's performance is nice throughout creating many heartfelt moments in the way Hodding shows characterisation.
The cast portray great movement and characterisation on stage. The cast come together showing unity at times, but also individually standout as the story moves on. Overall the cast deliver the various themes, from dark intense moments, funny and heart-warming moments brilliantly.
Animal Farm is a show that not only handles themes that could be political, but also controversial. With atmospheric and moody lighting, by Lighting Designer Jai Morjaria, and a simple but impactful set, by Set/Costumer Designer Hayley Grindle, which adds to the overall powerful message of the show. Director Amy Leach and Adaptor Tatty Hennessy not only bring a striking production but a modern contemporary take on this classic George Orwell book.
★★★★
Animal Farm is at The Leeds Playhouse now until the 29th March 2025.
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