Review by Molly Wyatt

-UDDERLY FABULOUS-

Animal Farm is by no means a simple play to stage; an absolute classic piece of literature, this politically charged story requires a great deal of creativity, commitment and character. Having read (and loved) the book, yet never seeing a stage production of it, I was intrigued to see how this challenging show has been adapted.

To say that this play exceeded my expectations is an understatement. Martin Newman, the director, has produced a masterpiece of theatre. While Animal Farm was George Orwell’s response to his disillusionment with Communism, the play speaks to any dictatorial form of government (and with so many pigs in the play, one canÔÇÖt help but think of our dear David Cameron). Overthrowing their cruel master, the animals of Manor Farm collectively begin to run the farm themselves.

The play is driven by an incredible ensemble; their dynamic and bond on stage is enchanting and their ability to embody their animalÔÇÖs characteristics strengthens this sense of unity and integrity on stage. Yet, although it is very much a collective piece, each character sparks their own individuality, all distinguishable by their well-crafted characterisation. The three pigs take authority over the animals and the farm, and each performer exuded tenacity and confidence on stage ÔÇô grunting at audience members was particularly terrifying!

┬áThe movement on stage was remarkable; Lucy Spain has done an incredible job of choreographing the play by incorporating physical theatre both in discreet, ingenious moments but also the pinnacle moments. Violence, pain, aggression and defeat are all spoken through the castsÔÇÖ movement, from throwing one another across the stage to building human pyramids, the audience were undoubtedly stuck to their seats.

I could praise each individual performer for days on end, but we may be here sometime. I am not surprised that this show has sold out and it is such a shame that there were only four performances! From the extraordinarily constructed set of rags, to the imaginative use of floor lighting, to the astounding costumes and face paint, I truly felt as though I was watching a professional production, not an amateur one.

Martin Newman has more than succeeded in producing a fantastic show. The best production that I have seen this year, left lost for words by the end of the play, goose bumps galore, I cannot comment the cast, crew and director enough for this absolute triumph. I sincerely hope that Martin Newman continues to create such phenomenal showpieces, there is a career destined for him.