Alchemy Theatre set to present an avant-garde version of Animal Farm

Set in a world where the oppressed rise against their rulers, Animal Farm, as the synopsis of the play puts it, follows a group of animals who overthrow their human master to establish a society built on equality and justice. “But as power shifts, ideals crumble, and tyranny resurfaces in new forms, leaving the animals to question whether they have truly won their freedom.”

The premiere of an adaptation of George Orwell’s Animal Farm is set to be showcased on March 2, at Alliance Française de Bangalore. Directed by Saketh Janardhana and presented by the Alchemy Theatre Society, this production revisits Orwell’s allegorical masterpiece, exploring themes of power, revolution, and betrayal.  

Set in a world where the oppressed rise against their rulers, Animal Farm, as the synopsis of the play puts it, follows a group of animals who overthrow their human master to establish a society built on equality and justice. “But as power shifts, ideals crumble, and tyranny resurfaces in new forms, leaving the animals to question whether they have truly won their freedom.”

The director told The Hindu that the play has always been seen as a sharp political allegory, with its themes reflecting the world Orwell lived in. “But what makes it so powerful is that it still feels just as relevant today, not just in politics, but in everyday life. That is what drew me to this play. We all know a fiercely ambitious Napoleon, a hardworking and loyal Boxer, or a sharp but hesitant Clover. My vision is to make these connections feel real for the audience, without spelling everything out. While this may seem like a straightforward, by-the-book adaptation, I am also bringing an avant-garde twist, something fresh, experimental, funny, dark, and full of life,” Saketh said.  

“There is music, there is energy, physical theatre, and most of all, there is space for the audience to think, feel, and interpret. Animal Farm is a story that keeps evolving with time, and this version will be no exception. I have stayed true to the core story, its events, and its message. The flow of the narrative remains intact, but I have taken creative liberties with dialogue and lyrics to bring it alive for the stage. The essence of Orwell’s vision is still there; it is just being told in a way that works theatrically,” he added. 

The director said that the process of the play began in August 2024, beginning with adapting the novel for the stage, followed by auditions in October, and rehearsals kicking off in November. “Since then, it has been an intense, yet incredibly rewarding journey filled with physical theatre, singing, dancing, and a whole lot of fun. I am lucky to be working with such a talented and creative cast, every rehearsal brings fresh perspectives and new interpretations of the play. Physical theatre is an entirely different ballgame, and for many in Bengaluru’s theatre scene, it is something new. But the way the actors have embraced it and brought it to life has been truly inspiring,” Saketh said. 

“The music for the play was created from scratch, and we have explored elements that are new to all of us, making this process one of learning and growth. As this is my directorial debut, there have been challenges and steep learning curves, but the support and dedication of the cast and crew have made all the difference,” he added. The play stars Ryan Roshan, Ashima Dassi, Dharmik Shetty, Aishwarya, Sharan, Kartik Prajapat, Siddharth Rai, Samyuktha and others,

The show at Alliance Française de Bangalore, Thimmaiah Road, is at 3.30 p.m. and 7.30 p.m. Tickets for the shows are available at the venue and on BookMyShow.