War Horse – Press Night, 6th August at Wimbledon Theatre

estheraustinglobal
1 day ago
3 min read

I had the pleasure of attending Press Night at Wimbledon Theatre for War Horse, the theatrical adaptation of Michael Morpurgo’s much-loved novel—hailed as “one of British theatre’s most phenomenal creations.” This extraordinary production runs until 8 November 2025.

Photo Credit: Brinkhoff-Moegenburg

War Horse tells the remarkable story of Albert, a young boy from Devon, and his beloved horse, Joey, set against the devastating backdrop of the First World War. What unfolds is a deeply moving and visually breath-taking drama, enriched with stirring music and haunting songs.

The production is renowned for its ground-breaking puppetry by South Africa’s Handspring Puppet Company, whose artistry breathes life into full-sized horses on stage. Each movement—from the twitch of an ear to the thunder of galloping hooves—is so authentic that you forget the puppeteers are there at all. This seamless illusion has inspired a generation of theatre-makers since the show’s premiere in 2007.

Photo Credit Brinkhoff-Moegenburg

The narrative follows Joey, sold to the Cavalry at the outbreak of war and shipped to France. Swept into the chaos of battle, he serves on both sides before finding himself stranded in the desolation of no man’s land. Meanwhile, Albert—too young to enlist—cannot let go of his promise to his horse. Against all odds, he sets out on a perilous mission to bring Joey home.

A Profound Theatrical Experience

This was an incredibly powerful production—one that held me utterly mesmerised from start to finish. The performances, set design, and puppetry were nothing short of phenomenal, the sheer creativity behind every detail leaving a lasting impression.

The story is a nostalgic reminder of the validity of the human spirit and our deep connection to the animal kingdom. It captures how, in times of dire hardship—like war—bonds are forged that become essential to survival. Soldiers not only leaned on each other but also formed extraordinary, wordless connections with their horses, relationships built on trust, loyalty, and an unspoken understanding.

War strips away the familiar. It rips people from the comfort of family and community and throws them into foreign lands where the rules of humanity are often shattered. In many ways, war is a battle against our own humanity—against the instinct to protect rather than destroy.

Photo Credit: Brinkhoff-Moegenburg

In War Horse, we witness men clinging to courage as friends fall beside them—human and animal alike. Amidst the horror, the fear of death, and the longing to see home again, the bond between man and beast becomes a powerful lifeline.

This production reminds us that life is bigger than ourselves, and that loyalty, connection, and love—whether human or animal—can endure even the darkest storms. It challenges us to view the world through a broader, more compassionate lens. In essence this could be a love story.

War Horse is not just a play—it is an experience. If you’ve never seen it, this is the time. And if you have, prepare to be moved all over again.