| "It is a wonderful opportunity to inspire young people" | | Lee Durrell |
To mark 50 years since the book was first published Theatre-In-Education have announced that they will be performing My Family and Other Animals in the new year. This will be the first time that Gerald Durrell’s most famous work has been adapted for the stage, a task which is being undertaken by Jersey Arts Centre Director Daniel Austin, and will feature local school children alongside professional company actors. Inspirational Daniel explains what appeals to him so much about the project; “Gerald Durrell is an inspiration, both as a writer and conservationist, and it is a privilege to have the opportunity to adapt one of his novels for the stage. I am surprised that My Family and Other Animals has not yet been produced as a play. “I first read the book over 20 years ago and it is an exquisite story. As a play, it will be an ideal vehicle to teach children about theatre, story-telling, literature, family and conservation.“ My Family and Other Animals documents Gerald Durrell’s life between the ages of 8 and 13 when he first became fascinated in the natural world and began to study the native wildlife. Wonderful opportunity Lee Durrell, wife of the late Gerald, says that she is “thrilled” that “Gerry’s best-loved book is being adapted for theatre. “It is a wonderful opportunity to inspire young people about the natural world and introduce them to the important conservation work that Gerry did when he grew up.” The production will be aimed at children aged between nine and twelve and is going performed in a variety of locations around the island, including the grounds of Durrell Wildlife. Touring The Jersey Arts Centre also plan to take the play on tour around the other Channel Islands and are even investigating the possibility of performing it in Corfu, where the play is set. T.I.E. (Theatre-In-Education) is a joint initiative between the Jersey Arts Centre and the Department of Sport, Education and Culture which aims to explore social and historical issues through the use of theatre in school. Get involved Auditions to cast the young Gerald Durrell will take place in November, and anyone interested in being involved in the project is encouraged to contact the Arts Centre. | 
