The Basic Theatre Review: Review: War Horse

Hey readers!

It's time for my review of War Horse.
War Horse is set during the outbreak of World War One, where Joey, young Albert’s beloved horse, is sold to the cavalry and shipped to France. He’s soon caught up in enemy fire, and fate takes him on an extraordinary odyssey, serving on both sides before finding himself alone in no man’s land. But Albert cannot forget Joey and, still not old enough to enlist, he embarks on a treacherous mission to find him and bring him home. This is the third time I had watched War Horse, having previously seen in 2010, and again 2015. Two years after closing in the West End, the UK Tour made a stop at London's National Theatre, meaning I was given the opportunity to see it for a third time. I believe it is safe to say that I will never tire of this play.

The puppetry of War Horse, ingeniously designed by the Handspring Puppet Company, is simply worth the ticket price alone. I do not think that it is possible to describe in words quite how amazing the puppetry featured in this production is; it simply must be believed to be seen. The outstanding detail featured on the puppets of horses Joey and Topthorn makes all of which takes place feel so real; all of which is portrayed appears to be so life-like. The puppeteers must also be commended for their outstanding works. The subtle movements of the horse puppets perfectly enrapture the real-life movements of the animal. It truly is all astonishing.

War Horse is imaginatively co-directed by Marianne Elliot and Tom Morris, as well Katie Henry who is serving as the revival director. The staging of this production is outstanding. It is a highly creative production and I truly admire the innovative way in which Elliot and Morris have directed this piece. Seeing it a third time, I noticed certain subtleties to the staging that I had not previously picked up on. An example of this would be the way in which fallen soldiers on the battleground rapidly roll off-stage to create the effect that the horses are galloping at a high speed. It is clearly understandable as to how Elliot and Morris won the Tony Award for Best Direction in 2011.

The original novel of War Horse was first written by Michael Morpurgo in 1982. For the stage, it was adapted by Nick Stadfford. The narrative of the play gives its audience a fascinating insight as to what life was like for soldiers on both sides during the First World War, told through the eyes of Joey the Horse, an uncorrupted and innocent animal. The majority of the play portrays the bond between Joey the Horse and his owner, Albert. The relationship built between these two characters is an utter joy to watch. However, a series of unfortunate events lead to Joey being taken by the opposite side, where he is cared for by German soldier Friedrich Muller. Similarly to Albert, Friedrich also cares for this horse deeply. Despite fighting on different sides of the war, Albert and Friedrich are shown to have quite similar personalities. Therefore, War Horse shows that all humans can find common ground, no matter how different they believe that they may be. The finale of the play is particularly well written, and it is an ending that is sure to leave many in tears.

The set design is excellent, as are the costumes which are well-suited to the time period. Both of these aspects have been designed by Rae McSmith, who has won multiple awards for her work in War Horse. The lighting, designed by Paule Constable, is also marvellous and really helps to bring the atmosphere of war to life.

The entirety of the cast also deserve a special mention. They are all exceptional and make a brilliant team. In particular, Peter Becker in the role of Friedrich Müller, the German officer who runs away from the battle, provides a phenomenal portrayal. He was highly believable and gave an outstanding performance.