From Roald Dahl to Jacqueline Wilson, Enid Blyton and Anthony Horowitz, there are certain authors that have played a key role in inspiring a love of reading in British children. One of these authors is Michael Morpurgo.
Morpurgo has a signature storytelling style, blending lyrical language with first-person narrative, often featuring historical tales and stories about animals. Speaking of which, War Horse, the story of a horse during the battles of World War One, is one of his most beloved tales.
Despite achieving little commercial success after its publication in 1982, Morpurgo was approached by then National Theatre Associate Director Tom Morris, seeking his permission to adapt the book into the play. Few could have predicted the immense impact this would have on the future of theatre.
After a hugely successful run at the National Theatre, War Horse transferred to the West End where it ran for eight years after winning two Olivier Awards. Since then, it has toured the world, dominated the Tony Awards and reached millions of people. Now, the production has returned to the place where it all began: the National Theatre.
The stage production of War Horse is well-known for revolutionising the use of puppetry in British theatre, and seeing it on stage, it's easy to see why.
The production features a range of puppets, from a small herd of horses to swifts, vultures and a truly show-stopping goose. The star of the show however, is Joey, the titular War Horse.
Operated on this occasion by the three-person team – Matthew Lawrence, Lewis McBean and Felicity Donnelly – Joey may be made mostly of cane, but he is just as much alive as any other actor on the Olivier stage.
From arresting scenes of emotional and physical intensity to Joey snorting, stamping and flicking his tale in the background, this is truly Joey's show. Despite not speaking (Joey narrates sections of the original War Horse book), we are able to follow his emotional journey and fall in love with his character through movement – a true testament to the immense talent of the Handspring Puppet Company.
The combination of this mind-boggling puppetry with clever set design and striking lighting means that audiences are fully immersed in the world of War Horse. Add to the mixture the late Adrian Sutton's masterful and emotive score, and you have a production that will shock, sadden, and uplift you, all at once.
All of these elements – puppetry, set design, lighting and music- combine in an electrifying way during the battle scenes, the production's highest points both emotionally and visually.
Fans of Morpurgo's original work will notice some changes in the script, including the removal of some peripheral characters, the unfortunate reduction of Lieutenant Nicholls's role, and a shorter overall timeline.
Nick Stafford's script, while capturing Morpurgo's profound and empathetic tone, has room for improvement. Continuous repetition of names and plot points take away from the immersive real-world feel, and brusque transitions between plot points sometimes leaves the writing feeling obtuse.
However, the second act sees noticeable improvement, as more comic relief adds depth and nuance to the script, especially in scenes of comradery between men on the battle field.
The cast are clearly striving to bring the intensity of Morpurgo's tale to the stage; however, at times this leads to overacting, almost bordering on hammy. Most lines are delivered at full emotional volume, not allowing the nuance of the beautiful tale to shine through.
One exception to this is Daniel Rock's Captain Stewart who, despite playing a smaller role, makes a notable impact through the range of emotion he brings to the character.
All-in-all, these gripes with the script and acting choices don't take away from the overall power of the production, thanks to the sheer strength of the other elements, notably the puppetry, set design and score. For children or those who were huge fans of the book when they were younger, this could be a four-star production.
One final recommendation: if you're going to see War Horse, it's definitely worth splurging on good seats. Trust us; you'll want to see these visual effects up close.
Audience members should be aware that this production heavily features flashing lights and sudden loud noises.
Buy War Horse tickets from £30 at TodayTixBuy War Horse tickets from £30 at SeatPlanFor more of our thoughts on the latest UK theatre, check out our Beetlejuice the Musical review and End of the Rainbow review.
War Horse is running at the Olivier Theatre, which is part of the National Theatre on Southbank.
The play is currently running and will end on Thursday 30 July.
Buy War Horse tickets from £30 at TodayTixBuy War Horse tickets from £30 at SeatPlanHow to get War Horse tickets
War Horse tickets are currently available from TodayTix and SeatPlan, with special offers meaning that tickets are available from as little as £30.
Thanks to these deals, you can also get discounts of up to £37 on some of the best seats in the house.
Buy War Horse tickets from £30 at TodayTixBuy War Horse tickets from £30 at SeatPlanThis just in: Midsomer Murders is extending its UK tour. Plus, a first look at Sandra Oh in National Theatre rehearsals.
Hence then, the article about war horse review michael morpurgo s classic tale is brought to life by dazzling puppetry was published today ( ) and is available on Radio Times ( Middle East ) The editorial team at PressBee has edited and verified it, and it may have been modified, fully republished, or quoted. You can read and follow the updates of this news or article from its original source.
Read More Details
Finally We wish PressBee provided you with enough information of ( War Horse review: Michael Morpurgo's classic tale is brought to life by dazzling puppetry )
Also on site :
- Trump berated Netanyahu? Analysts question US-Israel feud rumours
- Iran war live: US strikes Iran’s Qeshm, says Tehran attacks Kuwait, Bahrain
- Dunkin's New Limited-Edition Tumbler Is Guaranteed to Fly Off Shelves — How to Secure Yours