JOHN Steinbeck’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel The Grapes Of Wrath is being staged in Leeds.

The adaptation by Frank Galati will be performed at the West Yorkshire Playhouse from May 24 to June 10.

The drama is set in the American dust bowl at the height of the Great Depression. One family begins an epic journey, driven as much by fear as by hope, along Route 66 to California in search of work and a new life.

The cast includes a 30-strong community company made up of Leeds residents, alongside professional actors including Ben Bland, Daniel Booroff, Brendan and Charlie Folorunsho.

Abbey Wright, the director, said: “The Grapes Of Wrath is uncannily relevant to the world we find ourselves in today; increasing mechanisation, displacement of people, economic and environmental crisis.

“Across the world we have seen fear and hatred entering political discourse on immigration and identity.

“At the heart of The Grapes Of Wrath is the need for community and love. Steinbeck invites us to ask ourselves ‘Who is our family?’, ‘Who are our children?’.”

Running in tandem with The Grapes Of Wrath is the Playhouse’s regular activity in support of refugees and asylum seekers. This includes Asmarina Voices, a weekly singing group with a crèche with creative activities for children, and the HEARTS youth group, which offers drama activities and supports members to develop skills in English.

Visit wyp.org.uk or call 0113 2137700 to book tickets.