War Horse, the multiple Tony and Olivier Award winning play is wowing audiences at Sydney’s Lyric Theatre.
Brought to Australia by the National Theatre of Great Britain and Global Creatures, War Horse has been adapted for the stage by Nick Stafford, from Michael Morpurgo’s book which tells the heart wrenching story about Joey, the much loved horse belonging to Albert, a Devon farm boy.
At the outbreak of World War I, Joey is sold by Albert’s father to the cavalry and shipped to France. Joey is soon caught up in enemy fire and fate finds him serving on both sides, before ending up alone in no man’s land. Albert cannot forget Joey and, although not old enough to enlist, he embarks on a treacherous mission to find his beloved horse and bring him home.
The astonishing puppets, created by South Africa’s Handspring Puppet Company, bring breathing, galloping, charging horses to life on the stage. Life size horses, which are strong enough for men to ride, traverse the stage, their flanks, hides and sinews built of steel, leather and aircraft cables. Actors working with these dynamic puppets, make the audience believe they are watching real horses, not puppets.
“War Horse is a life affirming story about friendship, courage and family, which appeals to all ages. This is a production that brings the family together, we get people coming back again and again, and they always have the same reaction. It awakens something in you,” says Chris Harper, Producer, National Theatre of Great Britain.
The Sydney season will run at The Lyric Theatre until 12 May 2013, when it will head to Brisbane. Sandra T.
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