Octagon Theatre, Bolton – until Saturday 1st February 2025
Review by Rebecca Hampson
5*****
Based on the original novel of the same name this modern take on the classic, Animal Farm, stuns audiences at the Octagon Theatre Bolton.
Following the uprising of a group of farm animals upon their master and farmer who stage a revolution to create a brave new world, Animal Farm has been adapted for the stage by Ian Wooldridge in a spectacularly Brechtian way. No other staging of this novel would suit so perfectly.
From the very start I was wowed with the staging and lighting design by Ciarán Bagnall. The use of black light and footlights created an eerie atmosphere across the stage which emphasised the facial expressions of all actors seamlessly. The stage could be broken down and rebuilt to create everything the Animals needed throughout their journey to freedom, meaning each scene would flow into the other with brilliant cohesion and pace.
Characterisation was flawless, and emphasised beautifully with the use of props and costume. Su Newell’s genius meant that each animal was easily identifiable whilst allowing the actors to remain neutral when necessary. The head pieces used to distinguish between animals were simply wearable works of art.
As an avid lover of all things Brechtian I found myself completely and utterly enthralled in the magic of this piece despite the moments where the fourth wall was broken. Whilst each actor worked tirelessly and spectacularly I found myself most enamoured by the roles of Snowball, played by Soroosh Lavasani and Clover, played by Natalia Campbell. There was a moment in particular that stood out when it almost felt like Snowball had made direct eye contact with me and Lavasani’s piercing gaze was uncomfortable yet entrancing.
This adaptation was a pleasant surprise, and I haven’t stopped thinking about it since leaving the theatre.
Running until 1st February, this is not one to miss.