This is our review of War Horse at Liverpool‘s Empire Theatre!
Synopsis Of War Horse
War Horse was written by Michael Morpugo and published in 1972 and then adapted for stage and screen. The inspiration was drawn from the real experience of horses and soldiers in World War 1. Over 1 million horses were drafted to France from Britain – only 62,000 returned.
The story relates to the horse Joey and his bond with Albert Narracott (brilliantly played by Tom Sturgesd). Albert who rears Joey from a foal is distraught when the Horse is sold by his father (Karl Haynes) to the army for WW1 service in France. Underage Joey signs up and follows him shortly after. Joey meets an equine colleague and we follow their journey through the muddy, bloody hell of pulling cannons through a barbed wire No Man’s Land.
Analysis Of War Horse
The play was last at the Empire in 2019 but there was a full house this evening and the audience were gripped from the very beginning. As the images appear and the music is played, the most beautiful puppetry creatures appear on stage. You immediately forget about the supremely talented 13 puppeteers (Handspring Puppet Company) who bring the birds and horses to life.
Furthermore, the atmospheric lighting and wonderful choreography add to the emotion. There are moments of humour amid the poignancy and thankfully a relatively happy ending. However, more than a few tears were shed along the way.
Summary Of War Horse
Don’t miss this thoughtful and spectacular show. It’s an amazing production with heart and emotion, and the story delivers everything that an audience could want. Make sure to see it at the Liverpool Empire!
