New adaptation of George Orwell’s Animal Farm on stage at Nottingham Playhouse in political fable’s 80th anniversary year

e.gilmore@newarkadvertiser.co.uk

Published: 12:37, 19 January 2025

In the year George Orwell’s political fable marks its 80th anniversary, a fresh adaptation of his dystopian classic Animal Farm is heading on tour.

Tatty Hennessy’s version of the tale will explore loss of identity, the seductive allure of greed, and the corrupting nature of political power.

Directed by Leeds Playhouse deputy artistic director Amy Leach, it promises to be an exciting and thought-provoking story of treachery and rebellion — and provide a reminder of the true meaning of equality.

The cast of Animal Farm in the rehearsal room. Photo Steffi Njoya

The production is spearheaded by Stratford East and Leeds Playhouse, in association with Nottingham Playhouse, and will call at the Nottingham venue from April 2 to 12.

Rehearsals for the show are now underway, with the first images released by the theatres.

Tianah Hodding (Clover) and Brydie Service (Clara) in rehearsals for Animal Farm. Photo Steffi Njoya

Kaya Ulasli (Jones) in rehearsals for Animal Farm. Photo Steffi Njoya

Joshua-Alexander Williams (Blue) in rehearsals for Animal Farm. Photo Steffi Njoya

Tachia Newall (Napoleon) and Robin Morrissey (Snowball) in rehearsals for Animal Farm. Photo Steffi Njoya

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).

Stage Eloise Gilmore