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)
Originally published on