Review of War Horse at Milton Keynes Theatre

Michael Morpurgo's novel War Horse was published in 1982. While it was highly regarded and thought to be his best work, perhaps it eventually came to most people's attention when this striking play stormed the stage, thanks to the National Theatre, back in 2007. Now, War Horse arrives at Milton Keynes Theatre as part of another vast UK tour.

Adapted by Nick Stafford in association with the award-winning Handspring Puppet Company, War Horse tells the story of the First World War through the eyes of one horse, Joey, sold for a record price from a family battle but eventually shipped off to war-torn France much to the distress of his original owner, 16-year old Albert.

The sprawling and epic story should take some staging, but the vast cast, beautiful structure, stunning folk music and, of course, what this play has become known for, magnificent puppetry, all bring the story to life.

This production, directed by Tom Morris and revival director Katie Henry, is a magnificent thing to watch. While it has a limited set, with scenes mostly played to the backdrop of a black box and video projections (perfectly styled to capture the essence of the story), the piece allows the actors and, here, the puppeteers and puppets to create the storytelling.

There is little question on this one occasion that the stars are these puppets and those who create the movement. In no particular order, the horse puppetry honours during my performance were Jordan Paris, Owen Dagnall, Eloise Beaumont-Wood, Matthew Lawrence, Chris Milford, Felicity Donnelly, Tom Quinn, Lewis McBean and Michael Larcombe. Their work is a delight, capturing the equine movement to perfection and, more importantly, the character. Joey and Topthorn (the latter introduced army horse) exhibit many emotions via this movement, including love and fear, from the flick of an ear or the flash of a tail. Simply beautiful.

The human characters take a backseat at times. Still, Tom Sturgess gives a passionate performance as Albert, loving and caring for Joey to the ends of the earth to protect him and form a truly believable relationship. Meanwhile, the beating heart of his family is brought to the stage by Jo Castleton as Albert's mother. Sally Swanson brings her delightful voice to John Tams, absorbing folk songs. Also, there is a lovely comical turn by Gareth Radcliffe as Sergeant Thunder, who is also superb as Arthur, Albert's gruff and agitated father. However, the entire cast is a brilliant ensemble, creating many characters on the stage that perfectly evoke the period.

Adrian Sutton's score is an epic and sprawling work, as bold as any classic movie soundtrack. It encapsulates the atmosphere and fills the auditorium with sound during the many challenging and visceral scenes on the stage. It's one of the very best theatrical soundtracks that I have had the pleasure of hearing.

War Horse has rightfully received the recognition it has achieved. It is a perfect theatrical event, able to entertain audiences far beyond the traditional theatre-going public, with a story sure to tug at anyone's heartstrings and bring a tear to the eye, especially during the final sequences. The tour continues until November and should be on any self-respecting theatre fan's list and any on the fence. Don't be the goose and get trapped outside the theatre doors.

A stunningly created production of a heart-warming novel. Simply beautiful theatre.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Performance reviewed: Tuesday, 22nd April 2025, at the Milton Keynes Theatre.

War Horse is at Milton Keynes Theatre until Saturday, 3rd May 2025.

For further details about Milton Keynes, see their website at http://www.atgtickets.com/venues/milton-keynes-theatre/

Production photos: Brinkhoff Mögenburg
(Images feature different performers from those mentioned in this review)

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