Writer: Michael Morpurgo
Adapter: Nick Stafford
Director: Tom Morris
Revival Director: Katie Henry
When the National Theatre Company arrive in town you know you are in for a delicious taste of pure theatre. It was just so tonight at the Theatre Royal Newcastle when War Horse galloped onto the stage in all its glory.
War Horse is based on the novel by Michael Morpurgo and is adapted by Nick Stafford. The writing is based on the reminiscing of an old soldier, Wilf Ellis, as he recounted his experiences in the Devon Yeomanry at the Western Front during World War 1 to Morpurgo.
War Horse began its life on stage in 2007 and boasts over 7,500 performances. It has toured the UK and internationally. It is set at the outbreak of World War 1 and portrays the life of Joey, the beloved horse of Albert (Tom Sturgess). The horse is bought at an auction as a young foal. It grows into a strong farm horse with the kind nurturing of Albert. The two become inseparable but this soon changes when Albert’s father, sells Joey to the army to become a war horse. Joey is shipped off to France with the Cavalry unit. During this time the horse experiences being with both sides in the war and finally ends up in no mans land. At home, in Devon, Albert is lost without Joey and cunningly enlists in the army even though he is under age. He is determined to find Joey. Does he find him? A visit to the theatre will reveal all.
This is a powerful piece of theatre which begins at a slow, low key pace building up to its dramatic ending. The star or stars of the show are undoubtedly the puppets and the puppeteers. The life size horses and other creatures are created by the Hand Spring Puppet Company from South Africa. The puppeteers bring the horses to life with every skilful movement. These articulated movements shows that every characteristic of the horse has been clearly studied thus breathing life into them. A phenomenal fete of engineering.
The set design (Rae Smith) is simplistic leaving plenty of space for the large cast and horses to manipulate freely. The use of the back wall is a master piece. It depicts a torn page from a sketch book where videography is shown, depicting the various scenes. Each scene reflects what is happening onstage and becomes an integral part of the action on stage. Often videography becomes a distraction but not this one as it helps the audience to be immersed in the action as it reflects what is happening on stage. A clever piece of theatre.
This very intense piece of theatre however does have its lighter moments such as the antics of the Goose which brings chuckles of laughter from tonight’s audience with its uncanny, realistic characteristics.
The horrors of WW1 trenches is brought to life with sounds (Christopher Shutt) and lighting (Paule Constable). Just a warning for some. The gun shot sounds are naturally very loud and there is some strobe lighting.
The heart of this story is the relationship between Albert and Joey. Sturgess gives a fine performance showing real chemistry between them. It is a wonderful, endearing performance from Sturgess.
The cast in this play is large and therefore sadly too many to mention individually. They all excel in their roles with many playing multiple roles. There are some endearing cameo pieces, in particular the interaction between the French village family and the German soldier. Clara Lioe, as Emile the young girl, was a delight.
This piece of theatre has to be seen. It’s amazing, unique and unforgettable. Theatre at its best by the first rate National Theatre Company. They never disappoint. A theatrical experience that will remain in the memory for a long time.
Runs until 20th September 2025
