Background

The children's book, written by Michael Morpurgo gave a full perspective of the 1914-18 war from a horse's viewpoint. It was adapted for the theatre with artistry in stage design and lighting that show the iconic horror of that era as both absurd and tragic. The scope for the actors has massive potential which the players take on without either sentimentality or undue fascination for the bloodlust usually depicted in war expositions. In terms of homage to the past, it's interesting to note that amidst the legendary transgression in the sacrifice of human lives, many millions of horses were also tortured and slaughtered. Yet The Times recommended the play to all children - why? This is not only because kids love horror - rather it is the puppetry of two full sized horses on stage, ridden by actors. It's Art. The sculptors who made them (Handspring Puppets) captured the movement

The horses - war horses - show how emotion and brilliant movement takes the art of puppetry to new heights. The horses have been so well received that it has bought the play a predicted long run. Even so the critics recommended early booking and 'be sure not to miss this stunning show'

You have to see the puppets interact with the players to really understand how 'it is done' Still photos don't do justice. That said the actors are excellent in portraying a snip from a well hammered epic - THE war that was going to end war..... They took the story to heart and gave heart to the play.

Story

A farmer bought a foal for his boy Albert. They developed a love for each other which made it all the more poignant when years later the horse was taken away by the army for the war and shipped to France. Albert, though far to young to enlist ran away and did so anyway. Knowing it would leave his mother distraught he just had to go and find his horse Joey. The story unfolds from there and envelops the lives and emotions of all concerned.

Cast