Serving Barnwell County and its neighbors since 1852
From the rooster’s call to the soft shuffle of hooves, Barnwell’s Circle Theatre is being taken over by animals.
A cast of 11 youth actors is bringing “Animal Farm” to life on the Barnwell stage over the next two weekends. The play is an adaptation of George Orwell’s 1945 book of the same name.
“I selected ‘Animal Farm’ because I wanted to expose the youth to some classic literature while curating their talent, especially with my daughter getting involved in the stage. I hope the audience walks away with a little piece of wisdom from the great George Orwell, whatever that looks like to them,” said director Nancy Knopf.
For those unfamiliar with the storyline, “Animal Farm” uses satire and allegory to explore the flaws of society and governance through the plot of farm animals driving out their master and taking over the farm for themselves. The play follows the fight for a new leader to take over control.
“I encourage everyone to come support the young talent of this community and to support the arts in this very worthwhile production. Come for a play, stay for the lesson,” said Knopf.
Over the past three months, the cast has worked hard on memorizing lines and blocking, as well as learning how to move as animals.
They have committed fully from doing pre practice planks to everyone acting while on hands and knees because four legs good, two legs bad,” said Knopf.
Isabelle Snead, who plays Napoleon, said Knopf “shows us how to be better at playing our characters. I like how fun and comfortable the animal costumes are even though we have to crawl around on our hands and knees. It's been a lot of fun doing this play with kids my age.”
Napoleon is a pig who becomes one of the leaders of the farm animals. “He's very manipulative and takes advantage of the other animals. It's fun being able to play a villain kind of role,” said Snead.
Some actors portray multiple characters, including Knopf’s daughter, Freedom White. At the beginning of the play, she plays a pig named Snowball who has long paragraphs. She later plays a donkey named Benjamin, which White said is easier because of the shorter lines.
“I enjoy the fight in the background with me and Napoleon while Squealer and Clover say ‘Vote for Napoleon’ and ‘Vote for Snowball’ bit,” said White.
Addalyn Howard plays Squealer, who she said “lies a lot and manipulates everyone because he is Napoleon's right- hand man. He's kind of like his spokesman person that goes around and makes sure everyone is on his favor.”
Speaking of her theatre experience, Howard said, “It is really fun. I love getting to meet new people and getting to spend time with friends. I really appreciate Mrs. Nancy taking the time to produce the show.”
For several of the young actors, this is their first Circle Theatre play.
“I wanted to try theatre after watching my sister Emma in plays,” said Liam Creech, who plays Boxer, a loyal and hardworking horse. He said he’s enjoyed hanging out with his friends – old and new.
This is White’s first official play while “Animal Farm” is Snead’s second, though they have both been involved in the theatre through summer youth camp. White has also watched her parents practice for various productions over the years.
This is also Howard’s first Circle Theatre play, though she’s been involved in productions elsewhere before.
“Animal Farm” opens this weekend with performances scheduled November 14, 15, 21, and 22 at 7 p.m. and Sunday matinees set for November 16 and 23 at 3 p.m.
Tickets are $20, which can be purchased online at https://circle-theatre-of-barnwell.square.site. Or stop by The People-Sentinel’s office (22 Burr Street, Barnwell) to pay cash or check (made payable to Circle Theatre).
Circle Theatre is located at 325 Academy Street, Barnwell. Doors open 30 minutes before each performance.
