Regional Theatre Review: War Horse

Based on Michael Morpurgo’s hugely successful novel, War Horse is set against the backdrop of World War One and tells the story of Albert Narracott’s search for his horse after he is bought by the cavalry at the outbreak of war. Albert’s search takes him into the horrors of the conflict where Joey goes on a remarkable journey.

Adapted by Nick Stafford and directed by Marianne Elliott and Tom Morris, the War Horse story had me engrossed; at times it really is ‘sitting on the edge of your seat’ stuff. Tom Sturgess gave an emotional and stirring performance as Albert and his love for Joey was portrayed excellently. 

But the horses are the real show-stoppers and it’s incredible to see how South Africa’s Handspring Puppet Company bring Joey and Topthorn to life, with realistic breathing, galloping and charging. The combination of the puppetry and the cast’s on-stage connection with the characters created the convincing illusion that Joey and Topthorn were real horses on stage.

Other notable performances included Sally Swanson as The Singer, guiding the audience through the story with powerful vocals and Haydn Burke as the frightened Billy Narracott. 

Alexander Ballinger brilliantly portrays the conflicted Captain Friedrich Müller, who displays empathy, love and the innner turmoil of the soldiers on the front-line. He forms a selfless and emotional bond with Joey and Topthorn.

The minimalist set puts focus on the story and characters and the use of light and sound brought the terrors of the front-line to the theatre, further emphasised by the cast of young men playing shaken and injured soldiers on both sides. The imagery on screen adds depth to the scenes, with silhouettes of young men and depictions of harsh conditions. It’s very well done.

Among the most notable scenes was Joey unsuccessfully attempting to free himself from barbed wire in no-mans land. It was a tough watch for all the right reasons; his struggle and pain was poignant and sent a powerful message about the grave impact of war on both humans and animals alike. 

The themes of the show are powerful and evocative and despite this, the director has managed to intertwine some lighter moments, particularly through the comedic pieces of the goose on the Narracott farm and and the characterisation of Sergeant Thunder, played by Gareth Radcliffe.

It’s true that War Horse is now such a well-known story that many audience members, myself included, will likely have preconceived ideas of what to expect from this stage adaptation. However, it truly exceeded my expectations.

The performance was just as engrossing, and even more emotionally impactful, than I anticipated, and I was deeply impressed by the realistic puppetry and the seamless movement.

I have nothing but positive things to say about the show and highly recommend seeing it during the UK tour. You will be missing out if you don’t.