Experience Orwell’s ‘fairy story’ of Animal Farm in Lewes
Lewes Drama Collective is excited to present a fast moving family-friendly performance of George Orwell’s classic satire – Animal Farm – from 1:30pm on Sunday 22nd of March at the All Saints Centre in Lewes.
This compelling stage production of George Orwell’s timeless allegory will take audience members on a riveting journey that delves deep into power, corruption, and revolution.
Harnessing imaginative staging and costumes, the cast of immensely talented actors will bring to light the important political and moral issues of the novel while entertaining and challenging audience members with a thought provoking parable that draws parallels between the perils of totalitarianism and contemporary society.
“Dare I say it… as good as the book.”
Guardian
First published in 1945, Animal Farm has been studied, translated, filmed and brought to life on stage throughout the world due to its enduring relevance. Orwell called Animal Farm a ‘fairy story’ as the human condition is illuminated by animal characters, however what is shown is perhaps unpalatable about ourselves as the cast explores issues such as freedom, oppression and how the world works .
“…I saw a little boy, perhaps ten years old, driving a huge cart horse along a narrow path, whipping it whenever it tried to turn. It struck me that if only such animals became aware of their strength we should have no power over them, and that men exploit animals in much the same way as the rich exploit the proletariat.”
George Orwell describing what inspired him to write this timeless tale.
In a collective zeal for liberty, the beasts of Manor Farm oust the drunken farmer who mistreated them. Whilst the downtrodden farm animals decide what to do, the pigs, who consider themselves superior in all ways, succumb to the temptations of privilege and power. A rift is spawned and justice for all becomes a long-lost memory for the hardest working animals of the farm.
“This production speaks not just about one regime, but about the fragile line between hope and control wherever people – or animals – hand their freedom to others. Through inventive movement, ensemble storytelling and simple but evocative design, this production turns the farmyard into a vivid, unsettling world on stage where Boxer’s loyalty, Clover’s dawning doubts and Benjamin’s dry wit are challenged as the dream of a better life slowly curdles.”
Tim Rowland, Director
Based on what is arguably regarded as one of the greatest works of twentieth century literature, we are very excited to stage the story in the richly historical town of Lewes where residents are devoted to doing good and celebrating the unofficial motto of Sussex of “we won’t be druv” in a blazing relish each year.
Adapted for stage by Ian Wooldridge, this show is by arrangement with Nick Hern Books. This adaptation has been toured across the globe since 1982 and remains faithful to Orwell’s original, retaining both its affection for the animals and the incisiveness of its message.
BOX OFFICE
Due to limited capacity, we encourage you to book your tickets before they all sell out for this one-time-only showing.
TIMINGS
- Doors will open at 1:00pm and the show will aim to start promptly at 1:30pm.
- The interval usually takes place after about 45 minutes to 70 minutes after the show has started.
- The interval usually lasts for 20 minutes.
- The performance may finish by 4:30pm at the latest.
- Please note that times may vary on the day.
Please note that times may vary on the day.
Interval
During the comfort break, our fabulous volunteers will be serving freshly made cakes, coffee, tea and soft drinks and selling raffle tickets to support the community-led performing arts groups of Drama Collective.
Cash only please as unfortunately, no card payments can be accepted.
THE PERFORMANCE VENUE
These productions will be presented on stage in Lewes, East Sussex at the wonderful multi-purpose community venue, the All Saints Centre, managed by Lewes Town Council.
Venue information:
All Saints Centre address: Friar’s Walk, Lewes, East Sussex, BN7 2LE
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How to get there via public transport
Lewes is accessible on routes from Eastbourne, Seaford, Newhaven, Wivelsfield, Haywards Heath, Tunbridge Wells, Uckfield, Brighton and London.
There are train connections with Southern Railway, bus routes with Brighton & Hove Buses as well as other local bus companies and community transport options.
Car parking options nearby
- Lewes Station car park is a few minutes walking distance.
- East Street car park
- Phoenix Causeway car park
There are a number of other car parks in Lewes.
ADVICE FOR AUDIENCE MEMBERS
Photography / Filming
This performance does not allow photography or filming at any time for copyright reasons..
Notice for younger children
Please note that there may be loud sound effects at certain points in the performance and some children aged under 5 years old may be a little frightened at times. However, it is ultimately at your own discretion as to whether you feel your child would enjoy the performance and we will not turn anyone away at the door.
SPECIAL THANKS!
We are sincerely grateful to everyone involved in creating yet another entertaining experience, and our crew and cast wish to thank:
- our invaluable voluntary team members
- parents, carers, guardians of our talented production participants
- the All Saints Centre’s helpful staff and Lewes District Council
- East Sussex County Council and West Sussex County Council
- The team at the Lewes Tourist Information Centre.
- Local businesses for their support in promoting this event as well as those who have generously donated prizes for our raffle.