Masquerade Malta is opening its 2022-2023 season at Blue Box with Animal Farm, George Orwell’s classic.
Re-imagined by Youth Theatre Masquerade and directed by Ian Moore, this brand-new production offers a dynamic, daring and contemporary take on this timeless story. It remains faithful to Orwell’s original, retaining both its affection for the animals and the incisiveness of its message.
“The importance of literature such as Animal Farm can never be overstated,” says Moore. “Our minimalistic approach has offered this young actors’ company the opportunity to explore the craft of character creation. With a shorter narrative and bare walls, we strip back the original novella and give the piece a rather anaemic feel, placing the focus cleanly upon the allegorical message.”
The purpose of Animal Farm – written as a warning in 1944 – is as poignant today as it was when it was first conceived. “That makes this a must-watch for the moment – not just because of the immersive world created by this talented set of young performers, but because we are all due a reminder of its important message,” he adds.
Animal Farm introduces us to Old Major, the prize boar who calls the animals of Manor Farm together. She has had a strange dream of a better future – is it simply a dream or a vision of things to come?
Orwell’s world-famous fable tells the of the perils of revolution and its aftermath and has given the world the immortal phrase “Some are more equal than others.”
“Orwell’s seminal work, currently on the school curriculum, has a voice of its own and remains an evergreen piece of literature,” says anthony bezzina, Masquerade Malta’s Artistic Director. “I am pleased that this production has already generated interest among punters, as well as a very good response from schools. We are excited to be launching our 2022-2023 season at Blue Box at M Space with this show and look forward to seeing you there!”
Animal Farm is suitable for audiences aged 11+. Performances will take place on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 October at Blue Box, M Space, in Msida. To book tickets and for further information visit www.masquerademalta.com. There will also be morning shows specially performed for schools on Thursday 6 and Friday 7 October. For full details, please email info@masquerademalta.com. This project is supported by Arts Council Malta.
