The Farm

Synopsis

The modest living room of a farm, amidst the everyday challenges of rural life.

Slattery, a hard-drinking, hard-working farmer, rules over his household with a firm hand. He lives with his three daughters and his easygoing wife, each of whom has their own struggles and dreams. The family dynamic is disrupted when Arthur, Slattery’s only son and an aimless poet, returns home with plans to marry an older, divorced actress. This unexpected news brings considerable tension to the family, as they grapple with Arthur’s choices and what they mean for their future.

The Farm by David Storey is a richly textured drama that delves into themes of family conflict, individual aspirations, and the stark realities of rural life. Premiering at the Royal Court Theatre in 1973, the play is noted for its detailed character studies and the mounting tension that Storey masterfully controls throughout the narrative. The play’s exploration of familial duty versus personal desire creates a compelling and resonant drama, set against the backdrop of a changing rural landscape.