From the 21-24th February, The Questor’s Theatre in Ealing held a production for the pertinent story of ‘Animal Farm’ by George Orwell. The novella was written as a fantastical allegory for the Russian Revolution during the 20th century and explored how supreme power can lead to supreme corruption. For GCSE students, it was a very valuable trip however, for everyone else; it was simply an enjoyable outing for the whole family. An allegory for what Orwell (a democratic socialist) regarded as the corruption of the Communist ideal, the story is as relevant in today’s era of alternative facts as it ever was.

The production was performed by a group of talented actors from primary school ages to college and the young talents only brought the profound story to life.  Sumayya Rashid, a spectator of the performance on the last night, quoted: “The performance was like a fairy tale book as if we were with the animals on the farm.”

From the cunning young actress who played Napoleon the pig; to the rather comedic, resentful character of Benjamin the donkey, the adaptation exuded in young talent, humour, music and a somewhat daunting ending. Though it may seem like a harmless, light-hearted play, the overall plot and message of the story itself delves a lot deeper into the perils of politics, socialism and avarice... not exactly a “fairytale”  

Overall, it was a brilliantly staged and acted production with many young and spectacular thespians that really brought these esteemed characters to life.

 

 

By Shamima Islam, William Perkin CofE High School