I recently saw War Horse at the New London Theatre and thought it was incredible, so I've written a little something about it!
War Horse is set at the time of the First World War and follows the lives of Albert, a 16 year old boy, and Joey, a horse growing up in the family's farm, who Albert gets given the responsibility to look after.
As the story unfolds, you can't help but be drawn in by the relationship between Albert and Joey, as they grow up together, are separated by war, and throughout Albert's search to be reunited.
I was skeptical at first about how effective a large wooden puppet would be at playing a leading role, but it is amazing how quickly you forget that you are watching puppets and fall in love with the animals. And it's not just horses...I particularly liked a cheeky goose who made a few appearances!
War Horse is an extremely powerful story which captures the hearts of the audience, from a previously untold perspective. The magician in me loved the moment when Joey visually transforms from a foal into his adult self, but the relationship between Joey and Albert, and the journey portrayed, is truly magical.