New production images from this thrilling new version of Animal Farm at Leeds Playhouse show a bold, brutal, contemporary vision of George Orwell’s 80-year-old political fable.
Directed by Amy Leach, Deputy Artistic Director at Leeds Playhouse, with Set and Costume Design by Hayley Grindle, these thrilling new Animal Farm images show a fresh interpretation of a classic story that is very much of the moment.
Amy Leach “The process of building our world has been eye-opening in terms of how relevant Orwell’s original story still is. As well as factory farming and industry, our gaze has landed on gentrification around areas of deprivation and poverty; the modern justice system and life in prisons; images of protest; and the films of Clio Bernard and Andrea Arnold.
This is a brutal play, dealing with death and violence. It is difficult and challenging, but it is also incredibly rewarding and revealing about who we are. It’s very youthful, charged and energetic. It’s like a bullet out of a gun in terms of pacing and really feels like it’s connecting with now.”
Adapted by Tatty Hennessy, this Leeds Playhouse, Stratford East and Nottingham Playhouse production explores loss of identity, the seductive allure of greed and the corrupting nature of political power. This exciting and thought-provoking story of treachery and rebellion provides a timely reminder of the true meanings of equality.
The cast includes Tianah Hodding (Clover), Shakeel Kimotho (Mollie), Robin Morrissey (Snowball), David Nellist (Benjamin), Tachia Newall (Napoleon), Gabriel Paul (Boxer), Em Prendergast (Milo), Everal A Walsh (Old Major), Farshid Rokey (Minty), Brydie Service (Clara), Tom Simper (Squealer), Kaya Ulasli (Jones) and Joshua-Alexander Williams (Blue).
Animal Farm is at the Quarry Theatre at Leeds Playhouse from 12-29 March and Nottingham Playhouse from 2-12 April.
A Leeds Playhouse and Stratford East co-production in association with Nottingham Playhouse
Animal Farm By George Orwell
Adapted by Tatty Hennessy
Quarry Theatre, Leeds Playhouse 12-29 March 2025
Age 11+
Box office 0113 213 7700
Book online leedsplayhouse.org.uk
Main image: Joshua Alexander Williams as Blue. Photography by Kirsten McTernon.
