Mum Puppettheatre proudly presents Animal Farm. Written by George Orwell, Animal Farm is adapted by Andrew Periale and directed by Robert Smythe. The performance features an ensemble cast including Bernard Bygott, Dave Johnson, Adrienne Mackey, Rob Neddoff, Jamie Lynne Simons and Bradley K. Wrenn. Animal Farm opens on April 23 and runs through May 10, 2008.

One of the most provocative novels of the 20th century comes alive on Mum’s stage when the animals of Manor Farm overthrow their owner, and proudly work for no one but themselves. Celebration quickly turns to paranoia as the founders of Animalism learn that, while all animals are created equal, some are more equal than others.

Mum’s production of Animal Farm features human actors and puppets, and transforms Mum’s black box theatre into a barnyard. Mum’s production places the audience within the drama and compels audience members to ask themselves: what kind of animal am I? Would I follow or lead? Rebel or fall in line? Remember the truth or forget the lie?

“A few years ago I had to make a number of emergency plane trips,” explained Robert Smythe, Animal Farm director, when asked how he was inspired to stage Animal Farm. “I was pulled aside and searched every single time, often with other passengers watching the proceedings. Americans are so used to our inalienable rights that I don’t think we realize what it is like to lose them. As I put up with search after search, stared at by fellow citizens who had a look that made it clear that they were glad that I had been ‘caught,’ all I could think of was that while we’re all equal, at times some of us are more equal than others.

“I think this is especially true now. Over the years personal freedoms have eroded or been hijacked outright by fear. Orwell’s Animal Farm is often thought of as an allegory for the Soviet regime. I think it stands in for any system in which the citizens are so busy working to survive that they don’t pay attention to the citizens in power. The current political campaign has the candidates talking about the effects of the war in Iraq; no one has mentioned the effect of the war on terror here at home.”

Mum’s production included a two-year preparation period during which time the ensemble came together periodically to rehearse and develop the play as a group through their sharing of ideas and unique perspectives.

“This production is very much a collaborative effort, as well as a story for our time.” commented Mum’s managing director, Lisa Shelby. “Audiences never know what to expect at Mum, and Animal Farm does not disappoint. We can’t wait to see how audiences react, from the moment they enter our performing space and become part of the barnyard.”

Animal Farm runs through May 10, with Wednesday and Thursday performances at 7:00 pm ($25), Friday and Saturday performances at 8:00 p.m. ($30) and Saturday and Sunday matinees at 2:00 pm ($25).

Animal Farm is made possible in part by a grant from the Philadelphia Theatre Initiative, a program of the Philadelphia Center for Arts and Heritage, funded by the Pew Charitable Trusts and administered by The University of the Arts.

WHAT:
Animal Farm
Adapted by Andrew Periale from the novel by George Orwell
Directed by Robert Smythe

SUMMARY:
The Animals of Major Farm overthrow their human Jones, and set up a new, egalitarian society, and learn that although they are all equal, some may be more equal than others.

AUDIENCE AGE SUGGESTION:
Mum’s production of Animal Farm is appropriate for anyone old enough to read the book. Many schools require this work of literature for students in grades 8-12.

WHERE:
Mum Puppettheatre
115 Arch Street, Old City Philadelphia, 19106

WHEN:
April 23 – May 10, 2008

TICKETS:
$25-$35
Group discounts available for groups of 10 or more.
Student Rush tickets at the door 10 minutes before curtain for $10 cash, pending availability (must present valid student ID). Call the Box Office at 215.925.7686 or visit us online at www.mumpuppet.org for more information.

PRESS:
Reviewing members of the press are invited to attend the opening night performance on Wednesday, April 23 at 7pm. Contact Judy Walker at judy@mumpuppet.org or 856.693.4407 (cell) to arrange.

CAST:
Bernard Bygott
Dave Johnson
Adrienne Mackey
Rob Neddoff
Jamie Lynne Simons
Bradley K. Wrenn

CREW:
Robert Smythe – Director, Puppet Design, Set Design
Shon Causer – Lighting Design
Susan Smythe - Costume Design
Martina Plag – Puppet Construction
Jim Mullahy – Set Construction
Melody Wong - Stage Manager
Tim Martin – Production Manager