War Horse at Milton Keynes Theatre Review
DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW
Reviewed by Sue Rumble
Intro
This imaginative and moving show is based on a novel written by Michael Morpurgo and tells the story of a family horse (Joey) sold to the army at the outbreak of World War 1 and sent off to France from rural Devon. The story goes through his incredible journey, seeing fighting and horror. Albert the horses’ young owner decides to go from his parent’s farm in Devon to join up in France, trying to find and rescue his beloved horse.
Venue & Facilities
A lovely large theatre with a few places inside to eat & drink and numerous bars and restaurants nearby. Lots of parking nearby with some free spaces after 6.00 in Central Milton Keynes and a multi story car park opposite – payable.
Review
Wow – it is really difficult to find the words to describe this empowering, emotional roller coaster of a show. You could hear a pin drop in the audience – I was holding my breath at times! It is done with simple but really effective costumes and scenery. The sound effects and lighting are amazing, in particular during the fighting scenes. The stunning life-sized horses made by South Africa’s Handspring Puppet Company, make you feel they are living horses with their fantastic movement, breathing and charging. The puppeteers become invisible while you are watching Joey and Topthorn move around the stage and they were so believable that I was getting upset when they were being mistreated. These puppeteers – Topthorn – Head – Matthew Lawrence, Heart – Chris Milford and Hind – Felicity Donnelly and Joey as a Foal – Head – Eloise Beaumont-Wood, Heart – Owen Dagnall and Hind – Jordan Paris move around the stage as one with the horse and make them incredibly realistic with movement and noises.
The whole cast were amazing, giving an emotional story which the audience couldn’t help becoming part of, getting totally involved in Joey’s life and struggles. Albert – played by Tom Sturgess interacted as if the horse was real and made me cry on more than one occasion.
The emotional and stirring music and songs, sung by Sally Swanson, add to the emotion of the show. The songs when she was singing from the balcony in the theatre was particularly moving.
Credit for this outstanding show need to go to Director Tom Morris and Revival director Katie Henry – they have been able to tell a story of courage, loss, determination and suffering of the people involved but also the horses.
Credit also to the choreography and movement team for their great work. I really need to give applause to the whole cast and team as they have produced a spectacular show.
Wow – definitely a must see show, a great story, emotional roller coaster, full of moments to remember, compassion, as well as suffering.
Price & Value
The price range of tickets, in my opinion, is extremely good value for money given the quality and length of performance.
Date of performance – 22nd April 2025
Date of review – 23rd April 2025
Running – 22nd April to 3rd May 2025
Price of Tickets – £50.00 – £68.00
Running Time – 2hrs 40mins incl interval
Rating: 5/5For more information or to book tickets, visit www.atgtickets.com or call the Box Office on 01908 547625.
Milton Keynes Theatre, 500 Marlborough Gate, Central Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, MK9 3NZ