War Horse, currently showing at the New London Theatre in Drury Lane, is the re-imagining for stage of the classic children's book first penned by Michael Morpurgo in the 80s. Originally told from the perspective of the horse (Joey), but now re-told through objective means using puppets, the stage performance breathes new life into a horrific, yet moving story of love and war. Joey, is torn from his young owner and shipped off to help the fight against the Germans in the Great War.
The stage performance of War Horse sees Joey turn from trembling foal to full-grown adult before the audiences very eyes. The use of puppetry, adds a new and interesting dimension to the already harrowing story. The excellent work of the Handspring Puppet Company helps the audience forget they are watching puppets and puppeteers and simply get lost in the story. The flick of a tail, the tilt of a head, the galloping charge of the cavalry horses - all work so well, you could almost believe there were live animals on the stage. It is a true magic of theatre. The horse puppets add a new dimension to the play which is lacking in their human counterparts, but since Joey is the main star of the show this works perfectly.
When the play first opened in 2007, the puppetry had audiences and critics stunned - the effect is nowhere near lessened by the passing of time.
War Horse is a truly startling and moving play, re-telling the horrid realities of the First World War from a new perspective as Joey finds himself thrust into the fray; Forced to work for both sides, constantly thrust in harm's way and even lost in no man's land. The play soon has you attached for the inanimate puppet and his plight. Soon enough, his young owner comes to his rescue, risking his own life to save his dear four legged friend.
The cast and the production team did an amazing job of turning the novel into a full-blown stage production - something even the original author did not think possible. And this is a play which has since been enjoyed by thousands of people and will continue to do so for some time to come. Yet, it is terribly moving. The play is both moving and harrowing, when you think of those poor boys and young men being needlessly gassed and maimed in the trenches. The puppet horses of War Horse only add to the misery. You'll soon find yourself holding Joey and his friends dear in your heart, forgetting the strings and puppeteers and simply getting lost in the story.
Book your War Horse Tickets now and save money using our theatre ticket comparison tools. Save up to 50% on this fabulous West End show.
Compare Theatre Tickets is the online comparison website for theatre tickets - save money on West End shows.
No comments:
Post a Comment