Bolton Octagon announces autumn season including ”Animal Farm” and ”Around the World in 80 Days” musical

The Octagon Theatre in Bolton has revealed a series of productions set to run from the autumn of 2023 through to early 2024.

The season kicks off with a new co-production of Arthur Miller’s A View from the Bridge, in partnership with Headlong, Chichester Festival Theatre and Rose Theatre. The timeless classic is directed by Jaz Woodcock-Stewart.

Next up is Jeeves and Wooster in Perfect Nonsense, a comedy adapted from the works of P G Wodehouse. This will be followed by a new musical version of Around the World in 80 Days, based on Jules Verne’s classic novel. The play is directed by Kash Arshad, who recently directed the Octagon’s production of An Adventure.

Animal Farm, a new adaptation of George Orwell’s classic drama, will be brought to the stage by Ian Woolridge. The Octagon is partnering with Derby Theatre and Hull Truck Theatre on this co-production.

The Octagon will also stage a lineup of family entertainment for all ages, including shows such as Nest, a new family production by M6 Theatre Company, and WOW! Said the Owl, a puppetry and music-filled show from Little Angel Theatre.

The theatre’s artistic director, Lotte Wakeham, said: “Our audiences have expressed their love of classics and adaptations of novels, and we have some really exciting productions for them in the coming season.

“From really meaty dramas including a gripping new production of Arthur Miller’s visceral drama A View from the Bridge and Orwell’s iconic story of tyranny and rebellion in Animal Farm, to our world premiere musical adaptation of Around the World in 80 Days, which promises a visual spectacular as we take audiences on a journey around the globe, there will be something for everyone.”