The chaotic and anthropomorphic nature of its characters defy The Loft Theatre's latest production, a vivid and timely retelling of classical political satire, George Orwell's Animal Farm. 

Whether you have read the book before, or are completely new to Orwell's tale, The Loft brings it to life in such a way that prior knowledge is unnecessary. 

At a glance, the plot may seem simple, how complex can the lives of animals be?

But beneath this, Animal Farm is imbued with complexity and a political surface which the whole cast successfully orchestrate, utilising elements of physical theatre, ensemble work and of course, plenty of animal noises.

The play follows a group of animals who grow tired of being mistreated and so decide to overthrow their oppressive human owner, Mr Jones (Blake Hutchings) and create their own farm, with their own rules.

After settling on their own farm, eponymously named Animal Farm, the animals find even they cannot escape the likes of dictatorship and imbalance of power.

The pigs (Laura Hayward-Smith), Napoleon (David Bennett) and the more modest pig, Snowball (Henry Clarke) soon take over, despite their ruling of equality.

The other animals soon become overthrown and deceived by the pigs, who remain adamant they are looking out for them, acting in their best interest. 

Meanwhile, the pigs drink up their new power, and lots of whiskey, likening more and more to man, until, they become indistinguishable.

After the pigs meet with some farmers to discuss the takeover of Animal Farm, deciding it will become Manor Farm, a fight descends between them.

During this fight, the other animals peer through the windows.

But even they no longer decipher animal from man.

The Loft's Animal Farm, directed by Mark Crossley, is a reminder of the animalistic qualities of man, the power of deception and desire for power.

Animal Farm runs at the Loft Theatre until 31 January 2026.

Tickets can be bought here.