Orwell challenge for high school

From the archive, first published Thursday 16th Mar 2006.

TEACHERS at Pershore High School will be hoping that their students do not get any ideas for a revolt when the school puts on a performance of one of George Orwell's classic novels.

Pupils from the school are starring in an adaptation of Animal Farm and will be putting on three performances, from Thursday to Saturday, March 23 to 25.

The play will be something of an experiment for the school because it is the first production of physical theatre they have put on as well as the first using video.

It will also be quite demanding on the pupils who have to stay on stage throughout the production, as there are no scene changes.

English and drama teacher Simon Ricketts who is directing the production said: "The play version of Animal Farm is a perfect script to perform, filled with the light hearted frivolity and dark horror of the original.

"The events of the play occur over many months, yet the action is continuous which has proved a challenge for all involved."

A specialist dance teacher from Dancefest has been brought in to work with pupils to make sure they are ready to put on a lively and energetic show.

Animal Farm follows the story of a group of animals that stage a revolt against their ruler, farmer Jones, only to find that the power-crazed pigs who take control of the farm, lose sight of why they staged the uprising and things are soon much worse than they were before.

Tickets are available from Pershore High School on 01386 552471. Costing £5 for adults and £4 concessions.

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