ANIMAL FARM

Director's Notes

Manor Farm is owned by the cruel Mr. Jones, with little care for the suffering of his animals. Unrest and rebellion are stirring amongst the pigs and sheep, horses and cattle. No longer can they tolerate the injustice. 

So begins the story of George Orwell’s world-famous 1945 novel Animal Farm, and likewise this theatrical and musical adaptation by Peter Hall, originally staged in 1984 at the National Theatre. Ever since its publication, the story has bristled with political parallels, most notably Orwell’s withering view on how Communism corrupted itself.

To some degree, this analogy sustains, but in this third decade of the 21^st century, there are profound new resonances that speak afresh to current generations. Firstly, in the wave of far-right autocrats, who profess to speak for ‘the people’, galvanizing their nations by what should be ‘feared’ beyond their borders. Secondly, in a growing awareness of our relationship to and stewardship of the natural and domesticated world and the injustices we may be inflicting upon it to sustain our consumerist lifestyles.

This adaptation of the text has been created by the cast in tandem with the director, with a strong emphasis on ensemble physical theatre. Beyond the characters portrayed, the actors’ fashion many of the scenic elements within the play as well as performing all the songs live. Remaining on stage throughout the entire show, this is a feat of endurance, collaboration and creative invention for the entire cast. On that note, as director, it has been my genuine privilege to work alongside this creative team of cast, stage management, movement advisor and technical designers, and I wish to thank them for all their hard work and the embrace of uncertainty. 

Long live this Animal Farm!

Mark Crossley, Director