World premiere of ‘Animal Farm’ musical to open in the West End

George Orwell's novel is adapted for the stage by James Graham.

A new musical based on George Orwell's Animal Farm is currently being developed, it has been announced. Workshop performances are currently planned for 2021, ahead of a subsequent world premiere in the West End.

Based on events leading up to the 1917 Russian Revolution, Animal Farm tells of a group of farm animals who plan to rebel against their human farmer. In forming their new society, they decide how to live, but the farm quickly ends up in a state of despair. The musical adaptation of Animal Farm is currently described as a "chilling fairy tale."

Animal Farm will feature an original book by James Graham, an Olivier Award-winning playwright whose works include Quiz, Labour of Love and Ink. Working on the script, Graham said: "To be working on... one of the greatest political fables of the 20th century... is both a sheer delight, and also a real responsibility. Orwell's themes of power and misinformation, corruption and ideological divides resonate strongly today. We want this gothic fairytale to open them up to a wide audience in a boldly theatrical way."

Music is by Alan Menken, with lyrics by Glenn Slater. About the production, Menken commented: "I am beyond excited to be adapting George Orwell's masterpiece, Animal Farm, as a musical. And to be embarking on a brand new collaboration with James Graham, as book writer, and to be resuming my partnership with Glenn Slater, as lyricist, is truly thrilling."

Animal Farm is currently in development, with a series of workshops planned in 2021. The musical is then scheduled to make its world premiere at a West End theatre, with information on which venue to be confirmed.

All further production information, including casting, creative team and performance dates for Animal Farm are to be announced.

^{Photo credit: Alan Menken (Photo by Studio Sarah Lou on Flickr)}