We’re excited to be collaborating with Norwich University of the Arts, inviting students to come and see our shows and share their thoughts. This week, Tanicha Toro came to see Animal Farm.
Animal Farm, review by Tanicha Toro
After the pandemic hitting theatre and the arts the worse, it feels like a huge honour to be able to watch live performances again at Norwich Theatre Royal! Animal Farm is visually engaging, funny and the set-design really brings the story to life. As a film student, it is amazing to be able to grab some inspiration. The life-size puppets are immersive with vibrant personalities. They are playful and fun. You will be laughing and crying with them throughout the 90 minute performance. I particularly find the animal’s tails very amusing as they bind a human and puppet together so well.
The story really speaks volumes and is a must-see in today’s climate with prominent political themes of community/ power. You would be surprised how much you can learn from talking animals! You are fully engaged in all of the action with a very strong sound design and radiant lights that elevate the performance. My favourite part is the slow-motion scene that heightens the emotion on stage. Without giving too much away, as an audience member you brought into the action, admiring how skilled the puppeteers are being able to mimic animal sounds and movement so accurately. The ending is extremely thought-provoking and stuck with me all night.
Animal Farm is a well-rounded treat and affordable evening out. Great to watch with friends and discuss with a drink or two after. I’d highly recommend it to other students too. Overall the performance was extremely powerful and definitely something I would enjoy seeing again. It is amazing to have Norwich Theatre Royal on my doorstep and something I wish I took advantage of sooner! As an NUA student, it’s incredible to have inspiration everywhere in the creative ‘city of stories’. If you are fortunate to see Animal Farm, ‘Wuthering Heights’ and ‘The Birds and the Bees’ are both taking place next month which both look amazing! But definitely definitely watch Animal Farm if you are able to.
