Lowry Theatre, Salford – until 28 September 2024
Reviewed by Carla Whittaker
5*****
An Enchanting Experience
My family and I had the extraordinary privilege of attending the press performance of War Horse at The Lowry Theatre in Salford. It’s a rare delight to witness a production for the third time, yet this captivating performance evoked the same powerful emotions within me once more. The National Theatre’s cherished masterpiece, War Horse, unfolds an astonishing tale that immerses us in a poignant journey filled with heart-wrenching sorrow and uplifting hope.
This breathtaking narrative follows a boy and his beloved horse, showcasing a remarkable bond that bravely withstands the harshest trials of war. Set against the tumultuous backdrop of World War I, the story reveals a gripping transformation on a fateful day in 1912, altering their lives forever.
With a stunning legacy of eight record-breaking years in London’s illustrious West End and performances in 11 countries to over 7 million captivated audience members, War Horse serves as a powerful tribute to the sacrifices of horses during WWI—an astounding eight million of whom selflessly lost their lives on the front lines. While the tale also highlights the experiences of a young soldier and the profound impact of war on local communities, it primarily centres around the remarkable journey of Joey, the iconic horse.
Adapted by the talented Nick Stafford and originally directed by the visionary Marianne Elliott and Tom Morris, War Horse has become the most celebrated play in the illustrious history of the National Theatre, winning over 25 prestigious awards, including the coveted Tony Award for ‘Best Play’. This new tour is co-produced by Michael Harrison, Fiery Angel, and Playing Field, promising an unforgettable experience that enchants the senses.
Set at the outbreak of World War I, the narrative follows Joey, the cherished horse of young Albert, who is sold by his father’s greed to the Cavalry and dispatched to France to support the British war effort. Joey soon finds himself amid the terrifying horrors of battle, facing enemy fire and embarking on an unparalleled odyssey that sees him serve on both sides of the conflict, ultimately stranded in no man’s land, leaving us to ponder his fate with bated breath.
Meanwhile, back on their picturesque Devon farm, Albert is left heartbroken and frustrated. Too young to enlist, he feels lost and abandoned without Joey but is resolute in his unwavering belief that they will be reunited. Driven by an indomitable love, he defies the odds and joins the war effort, embarking on a daring quest to bring his beloved horse back home.
Based on Michael Morpurgo’s iconic and evocative novel, this play is a masterfully crafted drama that is both deeply moving and imaginatively vibrant. It breathes life into the timeless words from Morpurgo’s celebrated 1982 masterpiece, filled with powerful, thunderous music and hauntingly beautiful songs. At the heart of the production are the astonishing life-sized horses created by the Handspring Puppet Company from South Africa. Their remarkable artistry brings these galloping, breathing creatures to life on stage, capturing the very essence of a horse’s movement and spirit. The attention to detail in the puppeteers’ work is nothing short of phenomenal, making you believe these majestic horses are as real as the talented actors themselves.
The visual storytelling is elevated by Rae Smith’s stunningly intricate set design, featuring an expansive 25-metre projection screen that transforms seamlessly into breathtaking landscapes, snowy terrains, and the grim realities of battle, all without cluttering the stage. The emphasis on storytelling in this National Theatre production is impeccably refined.
In a production rich with emotion, moments of light-hearted humour emerge in the most unexpected places, particularly through the delightful character of The Goose. My 13-year-old, who was experiencing this spectacular production for the second time and is a huge fan of the film, thoroughly enjoyed it. He found himself laughing at the clever adult humour woven into the narrative, especially during the antics of the mischievous Goose, which added a whimsical touch to the otherwise intense story.
Tom Sturgess delivers a mesmerizing performance as Albert Narracott, capturing the evolution of his relationship with Joey from a tender seedling to a profound bond that tugs at the heartstrings. Their connection forms the emotional core of the play, brilliantly brought to life by the exceptionally skilled puppeteers.
Sally Swanson’s breathtakingly powerful singing adds a magical layer to the already enchanting atmosphere, making the experience even more immersive. War Horse is a rich tapestry of memorable moments, balancing darker scenes with bursts of humour, resulting in a deeply emotional journey that keeps audiences returning time and again.
This production exemplifies the pinnacle of theatrical artistry—immersive, authentic, and profoundly transformative. If you have the chance to see it, seize the opportunity! I would give it a million stars if I could!
War Horse is truly an essential experience, deserving a top spot on your must-see list. It will be gracing The Lowry stage until 28 September 28, 2024, so make sure to grab your tickets now for an enchanting experience you’ll want to enjoy time and time again!