Based on Orwell's first novel, Burmese Days is presented as part of the 8th annual Brits Off-Broadway Festival. Previews began Nov. 9 with performances scheduled through Dec. 4.

Burmese Days, according to Brits Off-Broadway, "is a compelling account of British colonialism, inspired by his service in the Burmese Military Police. His experiences as a servant of the 'benignly despotic' British Empire inspired the novel, which was originally published in the US in 1934, and in Britain a year later. It was banned in India for many years for its criticism of the Raj and British colonial rule."

Kiggell directs a cast that includes Charlotte Allam (Hecuba), Amerjit Deu (Frost/Nixon), Ryan Kiggell (Macbeth), Zak Shukor ("Mad About Alice"), Elisa Terren ("Together for London") and Jamie Zubairi (Man Is Man).

The design team includes George Moustakas (set and costumes), Anna Sbokou (lighting) and Helen Atkinson (sound).

Tickets to Brits Off-Broadway are available by phoning (212) 279-4200 or online at www.59e59.org. For more information on Brits Off-Broadway, visit www.britsoffbroadway.com.