The National Theatre’s War Horse is nothing short of a theatrical triumph. Having captivated audiences worldwide since its debut, the production’s recent run at New Theatre Oxford reaffirmed why this show continues to resonate so powerfully. Indeed, this production by Director Tom Morris and Revival Director Katie Henry showcases the enduring power of theatre to move and inspire.
Based on Michael Morpurgo’s cherished novel, War Horse tells the moving story of a deep bond between a boy named Albert Narracott (Tom Sturgess) and his horse, Joey, set against the tumultuous backdrop of World War I.
Based on Michael Morpurgo’s cherished novel, War Horse tells the moving story of a boy named Albert Narracott (Tom Sturgess) and his horse, Joey (Matthew Lawrence – Head, Rafe Young – Heart, and Felicity Donnelly – Hind), against the devastating backdrop of World War I.
It serves as a poignant tribute to the one million horses taken to the frontlines of war, of which just over 60,000 made it back. Joey’s journey is a microcosm of the experiences endured by these animals, who bore witness to the horrors of war alongside the soldiers they served.
Raised on a farm in Devon, Albert forms an unbreakable connection with Joey, whom his father impulsively purchases at an auction. But when war breaks out, Joey is sold to the British Army and sent to the frontlines in France, leaving Albert devastated.
As Joey endures the brutal realities of war, including serving both British and German forces, his journey reveals the harrowing impact of the conflict on soldiers, civilians, and animals alike. Meanwhile, Albert, too young to enlist, resolves to find Joey and bring him home, eventually joining the army and facing the horrors of the battlefield.
The story also highlights Joey’s bond with Topthorn (Tea Poldervaart – Head, Robin Hayward – Heart, and Gun Suen – Hind), a majestic black horse who becomes his steadfast companion on the battlefield. Together, they endure the relentless challenges of war, from pulling heavy artillery to surviving brutal conditions.
Topthorn’s grace and strength offer a poignant contrast to the chaos of war, and his eventual fate is one of the production’s most heart-wrenching moments, a reminder of the immense sacrifices made by these noble creatures.
Yes, it’s not the overtly festive fare one might expect at this time of year, given the sheer volume of holiday rom-coms on our screens. However, if Christmas is truly about hope, loyalty, love, friendship, trust, and courage, then War Horse captures the essence of the season as poignantly as any festive tale despite its sombre World War I backdrop.
One of the things that sets this production apart, alongside its poignant narrative, is the groundbreaking use of life-size puppetry, courtesy of the Handspring Puppet Company, which breathes life into Joey and his equine companions with breathtaking realism.
The audience is transported from the moment Joey gallops onto the stage as a foal (Diany Samba – Bandza – Head, Jordan Paris – Heart and Eloise Beaumont-Wood – Hind). The skill of the puppeteers is extraordinary – they don’t just manipulate the horse; they embody it. Every flick of the tail, twitch of an ear, or deep, shuddering breath conveys Joey’s personality, emotions, and spirit. By the end of the show, it’s easy to forget that Joey isn’t a real horse.
The staging is equally remarkable. The minimalist set design is dominated by a jagged projection screen resembling a torn sketchbook, which is used to display evocative pencil-like animations. This clever choice underscores the rawness of war, shifting from pastoral scenes of Devon to the desolation of the battlefield with haunting effectiveness.
Adrian Sutton’s stirring score and the plaintive folk melodies sung by a wandering singer (Sally Swanson) add layers of emotional depth, immersing the audience further into the story.
The performances are uniformly excellent. Albert’s youthful determination and love for Joey shines through in a heartfelt portrayal that anchors the production. The supporting cast adeptly portrays a wide range of characters, from stoic soldiers to grieving families, capturing the far-reaching impact of war.
What makes War Horse so unforgettable, however, is its emotional impact. The play doesn’t shy away from depicting the horrors of war, but it balances these moments with the enduring power of hope, loyalty, and courage. By the final, heart-wrenching reunion between Albert and Joey, there wasn’t a dry eye in the house – a testament to the production’s ability to touch the soul.
Whether you’re a fan of theatre, history, or simply great storytelling, War Horse is an experience not to be missed. The National Theatre has created something truly special – a production that lingers in the heart long after the curtain falls.
Thomas Goodridge, who plays Joey/Topthorn Hind, reflected on the wonderful (and festive) photoshoot with War Horse at Blenheim Palace, said, “What an absolute joy it is to be able to tell Joey and Topthorn’s story again, especially here in Oxford.
“It was particularly magical to have had Joey out at Blenheim Palace, strutting around the grounds during this beautiful time of year, the festive season. The show has gone from strength to strength over the years since I joined the original team at the National Theatre in 2007 and then again in the West End in 2010, and I’m so grateful to still be a part of that history. Long may it continue and what a joyous occasion it is!”
War Horse runs at New Theatre Oxford until Saturday, 04 January 2025 before continuing on its UK and Ireland tour to New Victoria Theatre, Woking (14 to 25 January), Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent (04 to 08 March), Theatre Royal Glasgow (25 March to 05 April), Liverpool Empire (08 to 19 April), Milton Keynes Theatre (22 April to 03 May), and Bristol Hippodrome (Tue 03 to 21 June).
