College of Lake County actors performing Orwell's 'Animal Farm'

Power and greed.

When those character traits lock arms, oppression and misery soon follow.

The dual ideas run through the heart of George Orwell's novel "Animal Farm."

Published in 1945, Orwell's allegory tells the story of revolutionary farm animals toppling their oppressive human leader in hopes of creating a utopian society. But corruption within the ranks creates a new but even worse system.

Those heavy themes will be portrayed at the College of Lake County when the theater department stages a version of Orwell's tale.

Animal Farm runs Feb. 27 through March 7 at the James Lumber Center for the Performing Arts at the campus in Grayslake at 19351 W. Washington St. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 27-28 and March 5-7; 2 p.m. on March 1; and 2 p.m. on March 6.

The play, adapted by Nelson Bond from Orwell's book, features a cast of 15 CLC students and community members.

Director Thomas B. Mitchell said Orwell's themes are particularly relevant.

"Power and greed can corrupt. We've seen it for centuries and we're seeing it today," Mitchell said. "You only have to look as far as Illinois politics to see it being played out."

After ousting the oppressive farmer, Mr. Jones, the animals set up a new society where "All animals are created equal."

Over time, however, the lust for control and power overtake the pigs who create a new slogan "All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others."

Mitchell said the actors will wear stylized animal masks to suggest their characters. "We are not really trying to disguise the actors as animals, rather to try to give them the essence of the profile and movement," he said.

Amy Holsman is designing and constructing the masks. Alexis Aranda is stage manager and Jean Boylan is assistant director.

During 2007-2008, the College of Lake County Theatre Department drew 6,370 audience members to 33 performances of five productions.

Tickets are $10 and $8 for CLC students and people over 65. Tickets can be purchased at the CLC Box Office or by phone at (847) 543-2300 or online at JLcenter.clcillinois.edu.