Rating: ★★★★★
Venue: New Victoria Theatre, Woking
At the outbreak of World War One, Joey, young Albert’s beloved horse, is sold to the Cavalry and shipped to France. He’s soon caught up in enemy fire, and fate takes him on an extraordinary journey, serving on both sides before finding himself alone in No Man’s Land. Albert, who remained on his parents’ Devon farm, cannot forget Joey. Though still not old enough to enlist, he embarks on a treacherous mission to find Joey and bring him home.
War Horse is an unforgettable theatrical experience which takes audiences on an extraordinary journey from the fields of rural Devon to the trenches of First World War France. Based on the beloved novel by Michael Morpurgo.
A heart-wrenching and breathtaking tale of love, courage, and loyalty, showcasing the power of universal kindness and the devastating toll of war, leaving an unforgettable mark on your soul.
War Horse is more than just a play and represents a deep personal connection. Michael Morpurgo, who wrote the book, was my favourite childhood author and through his work my love for reading flourished. First seeing the play at age 10, an indelible mark was left on my heart. Revisiting it, about 17 years later, feels like a full circle. Watching it through adult eyes, I could almost feel my younger self beside me, crying with joy and awe.
The story takes audiences on a heart-wrenching journey, chronicling a horse named Joey as he travels from the idyllic fields of rural Devon to the horrors of the First World War battlefield. This is a tale of courage, love, and perseverance, and how one boy will go to unimaginable lengths to reunite with his beloved horse. This emotional odyssey, so beautifully realized on stage, strikes a universal chord.
The production’s most striking achievement lies in its portrayal of the horses. These life-sized puppets are nothing short of magnificent. Crafted with stunning attention to detail, they are brought to life by an ensemble of supremely talented puppeteers who imbue them with startling realism. The horses’ movements, from their subtle flicks to the heaving breaths of exhaustion, are meticulously rendered. Even the sounds they make are so authentic that it’s easy to forget you’re watching puppets. The transition of Joey from a playful foal to a fully-grown horse was particularly breathtaking, setting the stage for the emotional rollercoaster that followed.
The emotional connection to the horses is undeniable. Their struggles are heartbreaking, and it’s astonishing how a “fake” animal can evoke such profound empathy. At the heart of the story is the beautiful bond between Albert, a young boy, and Joey. Their relationship, nurtured from Joey’s infancy, is a testament to love and loyalty. Albert’s early care for Joey saves both their lives in ways that resonate deeply by the play’s end. One of the play’s most powerful messages is its depiction of universal love and care for the horses. Whether English, German, or French, the characters’ shared affection for these animals transcends the divides of war. The horses, devoid of prejudice, respond only to the kindness and care they receive and do not notice one’s nationality, a touching reminder of what humanity can learn from them.
The production’s technical elements are equally masterful. The music is haunting and evocative, heightening the emotional stakes, while the live singing provides a lyrical narration that binds the story together. The use of birds on stage adds a symbolic layer, transitioning from peaceful little birds in Joey’s joyful youth to ominous crows during his darkest moments. The mechanical duck, a cheeky and mischievous addition, injects a touch of humour amid the intensity.
Visually, the play is a triumph. The stark set design serves as a perfect backdrop to showcase the magnificent horses. The clever use of a video screen at the rear of the stage extends the world of the play, displaying a torn-paper with changing images to evoke what cannot be seen. This artistic touch underscores the power of art to capture life and emotion. The only splash of colour on this rear screen, is red, symbolizing blood and transforming into poignant poppies—a powerful reminder of the war’s human cost.
The performances are uniformly excellent. The cast connects beautifully, creating intimate moments that resonate deeply. Even the German characters are portrayed with compassion and nuance, reflecting the story’s perspective through Joey’s unbiased eyes. This unique viewpoint—of witnessing the war through a horse’s experiences is refreshing and profoundly moving.
War Horse is a masterpiece of storytelling, blending heart, artistry, and innovation. It reminds us of the enduring power of love and loyalty, the universality of kindness, and the devastating toll of war. Rarely does a staged production move me to tears, but War Horse achieved this effortlessly, leaving the entire audience deeply moved, with scarcely a dry eye by the end.
Currently on tour across the UK and Ireland, this production is a must-see. Whether you’re encountering it for the first time or, like me, revisiting a cherished memory, War Horse will touch your soul and leave an indelible mark.
You can book tickets to see War Horse on its UK tour, here.
Review by Alex
**photo credit: Brinkhoff-Moegenburg**
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