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War Horse
Tickets
What's it all about?
Who'd have thought the story of a young boy and his horse would gallop off with so many awards? But when you see War Horse, you'll understand why – it's an epic tale that packs an emotional punch while also astounding you with its technical skill.
You'll go to experience the moving story and come away marvelling at how the puppeteers managed to create such lifelike living, breathing, stamping stallions – and all without the aid of CGI.
So, however impressive Steven Spielberg’s upcoming film looks, this is one occasion where stage trumps silver screen for its sheer power to move and amaze.
Who's in it?
Although the humans involved – and Albert in particular – give moving performances, the real star of the show here is Joey, the horse. And that's all thanks to the extraordinary talents of the three-strong team that brings him to life each night, many of whom have backgrounds in circus, dance and gymnastics.
He really is extraordinarily lifelike, and as his hooves stamp, ears twitch and tail flicks, you'll almost swear he really is alive. So convincing is Joey that the experts behind his creation, South Africa's renowned Handspring Puppet Company, have won a special Tony Award for Artistic Achievement.
Suitable for
Your kids will watch transfixed by War Horse as huge steeds charge across the stage and the fields of the Somme are conjured before them. And if you’re a bit of a bookworm you’ll know you’re in safe hands with a story from former Children’s Laureate Michael Morpurgo that’s fast becoming a classic.
Animal lovers (even the most exacting equine experts) will also be amazed at how true to life every movement seems. You’ll be impressed as two magnificent horses go head to head, but perhaps even more so when you notice, in a quieter moment, that Joey looks like he’s actually breathing.
Please note: Battle scenes may upset very young viewers.
What's the story?
You may have heard about the astonishing puppetry used in this show, but the incredibly moving story at its heart is what really transports you to another time and place.
With World War One looming, young Albert's beloved horse, Joey, is sold to the cavalry and shipped off to France. Albert is too young to enlist, but he can’t forget Joey, so he makes up his mind to embark on an epic mission to scour the churned up battlefields and barbed wire-strewn trenches in search of his old friend.
This atmospheric show will have you willing both to survive, while reminding you of the enduring power of friendship.
Staff Reviews
This is definitely the most amazing play I have ever seen. After 15-20 minutes the horse becomes real! It is so well done. The music, acting, staging - brilliant!
From the moment we first meet “Joey” it is impossible not to get attached to this horse and not smile when his ears twitch or his tail shakes. It was so clever how the movement was totally portrayed by the actors working the various parts of the body. You really did forget that it was not a real animal onstage! The play does a good job of breaking up the emotional tension with humour.
What the critics say
So exhilarating it makes you rejoice to be alive. Its sheer skill and invention are awe-inspiring
War Horse only confirms the National's extraordinary knack of turning children's literature into the finest drama. Stunning
An extraordinary piece of theatre which is both epic and intimate. Guaranteed to move the heart
Customer Reviews
I enjoyed the show very much, the horses were fantastic.The story was ok but struggled with the german and french speaking in it,also the theatre was far too hot.
Some deviation from the book storyline was expected and did not distract from the general atmosphere of the period represented. This play was visually stunning with fantastic props and clever, imaginative use of background images. Sitting at the back of the balcony did not hamper the visual impact but many of the lines were inaudible, thus 4*
Very moving. The drama was captivating. The stage craft so clever. And the puppets were stunning with the movement beyond realistic. Quite magical.
A must see piece of theatre ..So moving and the horses are incredible ..
Enjoyable,puppetry by far the best I have ever seen. Wouldn't go again but pleased to have seen it once.
Fabulous!! Was not sure what to expect, but the cast made the story come alive. You watch the horses not the actors inside. Storyteller was excellent

