Animal Farm UK Tour Review (Leeds Playhouse, Quarry Theatre)

22 March 2025 I 19:30 I Leeds Playhouse, Quarry Theatre

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

In a strikingly relevant revival of George Orwell's political allegory, Tatty Hennessy's adaptation of Animal Farm is a grungy statement that employs beastly, brutish animals to exploit tyrannical power. Marking the 80th anniversary of the political fable, this Leeds Playhouse and Stratford East collaboration (assoc. Nottingham Playhouse) seeks a rebellious aesthetic that challenges traditional theatre conventions. These animals walk on two legs, gifting the actors an ironic humanity synonymous to their oppressors. Recently nominated for an Olivier Award, Amy Leach's direction culminates the very reason I love theatre. You will not find a more dynamic, haunting demonstration of live performance.

The oppressed animals of Mr Jones' farm want change. The dystopian fiction observes an overturn of power against their enslavement, running their iron-fisted farmer out. Series of anthropomorphic animals rebel against capitalism, desiring a utopia where all animals are equal. Though power is inevitable. Napoleon and Snowball, the pigs of the farm, grow power hungry, enlisting propaganda and scapegoats to become the epitome of what they once fought so passionately.

When watching a play, sound design can often be neglected subservient to the action, yet Kahlil Madovi's compositions are intuitive to Hennessy's adaptation. Even before you reach the auditorium, a punky playlist seeps through the theatre in an anarchic ambience. Viewers should expect Madovi's scores to be loud, but artistically intelligent with sound as the aggressor. Audible landscapes of conflict are established, which never once weakens in strength as the animals riot for survival.

Such vigorous audio compliments Kane Husbands' movement, leading physical theatre approaches with staccato, grounded motions. Every body is purposeful and reflective of frustration. Choreography dominates this performance, portraying violence through a co-ordinated and fluid ensemble, opposed to naturalistic combat. The imagery of blood frequently features in the aftermath, a visceral reminder of the chilling realities behind dictatorship.

The pigs of Animal Farm are unquestionably resonant, as Tachia Newall's Napoleon steadily mounts in rage, his intimidation resulting in a guttural, frightening leader. The show's opening moments (although brief) see Everal A Walsh deliver a sublimely impassioned monologue as Old Major, displaying first-class acting skills within somewhat of a hypnotised audience. The way this production captivates such silence is remarkable.

British Sign Language is a crucial inclusion within Leach's vision, with deaf actress Tianah Hodding bestowing the heart of Animal Farm through Clover. All characters integrate BSL within their performances,

gesturally compelling to give the animals a united method of communication, displaying strength in an exceptionally diverse cast. The sign for "long live Animal Farm" holds an unnerving resemblance to a raised fist, historically seen in socialist movements.

Preserving each actor's authentic accent is equally inspired, promoting an individuality between the animals that breeds such dynamic contrasts. With only one performer different, this adaptation would be phenomenally different. These honest and personal behaviours result in a powerful emotional presence that this novella has never seen.

A double-layered set, designed by Hayley Grindle, reflects an industrial analogy of social divide, with a fragile glass farmhouse situated atop a deconstructed metallic farmland, the beasts emerging from a shadowy pall. Modernity in Grindle's setting and commercial costuming form a relatability away from animals, returning Orwell's political undertones to highlight universal mistreatment of working classes.

Where Hennessy's adaptation is rightfully devastating, an unexpected treasure comes through Em Prendergast's Milo, a new addition to the story. Entering as a satirical narrator, this trustworthy scootering pigeon delivers some knockout comedy punchlines and summarises the action, a comforting warmth benefitting the tone.

I will shout about this adaptation from the rooftops for years and years. Hennessy and Leach's reconstructed Animal Farm is vampy, sophisticated and intense. As I sit behind my laptop writing this review, simply remembering the experience is enough to make me fizz with excitement! The pure electric, pulse-racing attribute only few shows can achieve. A nightmarish feast for the imagination, this production is the most confident, reassured play I have ever seen, and it is a privilege to have been in the audience.