War Horse
War Horse
Milton Keynes Theatre (UK Tour)
Review Complete
“An emotional, rollercoaster of a superb show.”
22 April 2025
From the moment the curtain rises on this UK touring production of War Horse at Milton Keynes theatre, it becomes abundantly clear that this is more than just a play – it is an experience that transcends traditional theatre. The production, based on Michael Morpurgo's beloved novel, takes the audience on an emotional rollercoaster that beautifully intertwines the themes of love, loss, and the unbreakable bond between humans and animals against the harrowing backdrop of World War I.
The Storytelling:
The narrative follows the journey of Joey, a remarkable horse (puppeteered by Tom Quinn, Lewis Bean and Michael Larcombe), and Albert Naracott (Tom Sturgess) the boy who loves him. The storytelling is rich and profound, capturing the innocence of youth amid the brutality of war. Each scene is expertly crafted, evoking a spectrum of emotions – from laughter to heart-wrenching sorrow. The adaptation remains faithful to the original material while enhancing it for the stage, making it accessible for both new audiences and long-time fans. School parties and adults alike, all together in the theatre with not dry eye in the house. Such an emotional story and emotional performances.
Puppetry and Production Design:
One of the standout features of War Horse is the astounding puppetry. The life-sized horse puppets, designed and operated with such skill, are nothing short of extraordinary. Within 10 minutes, I could no longer see the puppeteers. The level of craftsmanship is breathtaking, bringing Joey, Top Thorn and the other horses to life with remarkable realism. The puppeteers, who are visible on stage, work in seamless harmony to convey the characters' emotions, making it easy for the audience to form a powerful connection with the animals.
The production design, from the evocative set to the atmospheric lighting, transports you to the English countryside and the trenches of the First World War. Every element is meticulously curated to enhance the storytelling, creating a rich visual tapestry that complements the narrative beautifully.
Performances:
The cast delivers stellar performances that resonate deeply. It is truly an ensemble performance. The portrayal of Albert (Tom Sturgess) is both tender and powerful, perfectly capturing the character's growth and resilience. The supporting cast, including those who portray the various soldiers and villagers, deliver nuanced performances that add depth to the story. Their commitment to embodying their characters, coupled with the emotional weight of the script, ensures that every performance is unforgettable.
Music and Sound:
The musical score (Adrian Sutton), combined with the sound design (Christoher shutt), elevates the emotional stakes. The haunting melodies and poignant songs echo the themes of longing and loss, enveloping the audience in a soundscape that brings tears to the eyes. The integration of live music adds an extra layer of depth to the production, further immersing the audience in the experience.
Overall Impact:
War Horse is not just a theatrical performance; it is a profound reflection on human and animal connection, bravery, and sacrifice. The UK touring production captures the essence of Morpurgo's work perfectly, while presenting it in a way that is visually stunning and emotionally impactful. It is a must-see for theatre enthusiasts and anyone looking to be moved by a powerful story.
Conclusion
War Horse is a triumphant testament to the power of storytelling and the magic of live theatre. I left the theatre with my heart full and my eyes weeping, with such, superb, powerful performances, I had witnessed something truly special. This production deserves every one of its five stars and then some!
Please I urge you not to miss the chance to experience this masterpiece. Well done – Cast and creatives of War Horse.
Reviewer: Mark Bilsby
Photography: Brinkhoff Mogenburg
We are Gifted tickets so that in return we may give an honest review. All comments are those of the reviewer and theirs alone.