Animal Farm by George Orwell.

Blue Apple Theatre bring their latest production Animal Farm by George Orwell to the stage at Theatre Royal Winchester from 12th-14th July 2023. Bringing together a superb combination of music, acting, puppets, and audiovisuals.

The scene is all set drunken farmer hounded out by the tired and overworked farm animals rebelling. Sold by the promise of equality and Utopia-style farming the animals set to work hard for each other. However, the pigs find power in their newfound freedom and divide, lie and conquer to satisfy their gluttony.

James Benfield plays the role of the author George Orwell. The play takes form at the author’s desk as Benfield types the script out while narrating part of the story alongside fellow narrators Shadow (Anna Brisbane) and Boxer (Sam Dace). A take on the novel tells the story from different perspectives and opens up debate on the meaning behind the classic novel.

The fantastic stage farm setting complete with straw trailing out from the stable doorway sets the scene for Manor Farm. Where the disgruntled animals live and work. Creator Mark Pyke’s set design offers a superb backdrop for the cast to bring Animal Farm to life.

The two henchman dogs played by Paul Smith and James Spencer added humour to the performance. Their black leather jackets, tattooed arm sleeves and dark glasses oozed menace and fear to the Farm animals as they fiercely stood guard at the farmhouse door protecting the power-hungry pigs, led by Napoleon (Tom Hatchett).

Director Richard Conlon has achieved another successful and thought-provoking production with the talented cast members from Blue Apple. His enthusiasm, patience and expertise bring out the confidence and acting abilities in his cast. I never fail to be impressed by their productions.