Amazing, emotional, creative and utterly captivating, that’s how I’d begin to describe War Horse at the Wales Millennium Centre, which runs in Cardiff until 25 October.
If you’ve read Michael Morpurgo’s powerful novel or seen the film, you’ll know the story of Joey, the horse whose journey from a Devon farm to the battlefields of the First World War has captured hearts around the world. I read the book years ago, a beautifully illustrated edition by French artist François Place, but this was the first time my grandson and I had seen the stage version.
This is the National Theatre’s acclaimed production, returning on a UK and Ireland tour, and it’s clear to see why it continues to be so loved. Directed by Marianne Elliott and Tom Morris, and supported by Handspring Puppet Company’s incredible life-sized horse creations, War Horse is a masterclass in stagecraft and storytelling.
The story
We’re taken from the rolling hills of rural Devon to the muddy trenches of France in 1914. At the heart of it all is Joey, the beloved horse of young Albert. When war breaks out, Joey is sold to the cavalry by Albert’s father and shipped off to France. Heartbroken but determined, Albert vows to find Joey and bring him home.
What follows is a moving tale of courage, loyalty and the unbreakable bond between boy and horse, set against the horrors of war. Joey’s journey through the battlefield from cavalry charges to captivity, is both heartbreaking and breathtaking to watch.
The production
This production completely exceeded our expectations. The combination of storytelling, puppetry, lighting, sound, music, and costume design made for an unforgettable experience. The audience at the opening night gave a well-deserved standing ovation.
Co-director Tom Morris once said that the brilliance of War Horse lies in how the audience knows the puppets aren’t real, yet still feels every emotion as if they were. That couldn’t be more true — the craftsmanship and performance of the puppeteers bring Joey and Topthorn to life in an extraordinary way.
My grandson was particularly impressed by the use of projected text and film, which added depth and emotion to the narrative.
Age guidance
The show is recommended for ages 10 and above (no under 2s). Expect strong language, loud bangs, flashes and gunfire. The scenes of war are intense but handled with care, immersing the audience in the reality of the First World War without losing sight of the human and animal stories at its core.
Historical context
Horses played a vital role in the Great War, carrying soldiers, pulling supplies and the wounded. By 1917, the British Army employed more than 368,000 horses on the Western Front. With not enough suitable horses in Britain, huge numbers were brought from abroad, including around 130,000 from Canada and nearly a million from the USA.
Tragically, an estimated eight million horses, donkeys and mules died during the conflict due to shellfire, disease, exhaustion and the brutal conditions of war. Six black horses that survived went on to pull the coffin of the Unknown Warrior to Westminster Abbey, a fitting tribute to the courage shared by horse and man.
Standout moments
A special mention must go to the bugle player whose performance before the cavalry charge created an electric atmosphere in the theatre, you could almost feel the tension in your body.
The production credits are extensive and well deserved: designer Rae Smith, puppet designer Adrian Kohler, lighting by Rob Casey, and Toby Sedgwick’s direction of horse movement all combine to create a seamless experience. Music by Adrian Sutton, costumes by Johanna Coe and the work of the entire creative team, including the puppeteers and cast, bring this world to life with remarkable precision and emotion.
Final thoughts
War Horse is a moving, beautifully staged production that captures both the brutality of war and the beauty of friendship. It’s a story that stays with you long after the curtain falls.
Running time: approximately 2 hours 40 minutes (including interval).
Performances:
Tuesday to Saturday – 7.30pm
Thursday to Saturday – 2.30pm
Tickets are available from the Wales Millennium Centre:
www.wmc.org.uk/en/whats-on/2025/war-horse
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