The Octagon in Bolton continues its season with one of the most powerful American dramas of all time, John Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men.
It tells the story of fast-talking farm hand George and his innocent companion, Lennie, who accompanies him in a life of casual labour in 1930s America. The two friends share a belief and desire for ‘the American Dream’—a place of their own where they can “live off the fat of the land”. But George and Lennie must protect each other from the cruelty and injustice that threatens to shatter their dream.
Octagon artistic director David Thacker explains that the play will be the fifth American drama he has directed at the Octagon.
“I love great American plays, they move me deeply and I know that audiences can be grabbed, entertained and moved in a very powerful way. I have never directed this play before, although it is one of my favourite pieces of American drama, and I am looking forward to working with a fantastic cast of actors to bring the production to life.”
The role of George will be played by Andrew Langtree, who has just finished playing the role of Carl Bruner in the original West End production of Ghost the Musical.
Kieran Hill returns to the Octagon in the role of Lennie.
The play runs from January 17 to February 16.