War Horse at the Regent Theatre for 2025

War Horse: A Theatrical triumph returns to The Regent Theatre

[AD/Press Invite: Tickets were kindly gifted by the team at The Regent Theatre]

Last night, we had the privilege of attending the opening night of the National Theatre's production of War Horse for the first time and we can wholeheartedly confirm…we were welling up in the first 10 minutes for good reason. 

We also had the pleasure of hearing Theatre Director, Cheryl Taylor, elaborate on the partnership between National Theatre and the Speak Up Programme - an initiative that has seen 191 sessions completed and amassed 2,180 participants. Cheryl stated "These sessions have provided a platform for young voices to be heard, sharing new ideas, and sparking change."

This production has taken to the stage for nearly 20 years and has captivated audiences every time, but has been a near-sellout show for the Regent Theatre for the 3 years it has toured in the city of Stoke-on-Trent. 

The story follows Joey, an Irish (almost) thoroughbred and his journey from his idyllic life on a farm in rural Devon as he is raised by teenager Albert and their unbreakable bond, until he is sold to the cavalry and shipped to France, in the devastating outbreak of World War 1. 

Whether you have read the novel, seen the film or production before-hand, there is no doubt you won't be absolutely floored like we were. Our Marketing Manager, Sarah Thomas-Gordon said: 

“I went in knowing very little, only that this show 

a) was about a horse

b) was likely to make me sob

Both statements were true. I was captivated most by the minimal yet dramatic staging, effects and of course the intricacy and beauty of the horses on stage - from the gentle twists of their ears to the disgruntled woft of their tails. The ongoing partnership between The National Theatre and The Regent Theatre has allowed this outstanding production to be accessed by our city, capturing the imaginations of local theatre goers; it certainly captured mine.”

An obvious highlight of this production is the extraordinary craftsmanship of the Handspring Puppet Company, whose mastery breathes life into the horses with stunning realism, bringing a non-speaking puppet horse to life as the emotional core of the production. Special recognition goes to the talented puppeteers, including Elouise Beaumont-Wood and Jordan Paris, who introduce Joey as a foal, as well as Rianna Ash, Alexandra Donnachie, Felicity Donnelly, and their fellow performers, who skillfully animate Joey and Topthorn throughout their harrowing journey on the battlefield.

Undoubtedly, the cast for this production was simply outstanding. Tom Sturgess delivered a gripping and heart-wrenching portrayal of Albert Narracott, capturing his transformation with raw intensity. Alongside him, Jo Castleton and Karl Haynes added depth and complexity to the Narracott family dynamic, drawing the audience into their turbulent world. An honourable mention must go to Jack Lord (Sergent Thunder)  and Gareth Radcliffe (Private Klausen), for putting fear, dread and anger into the audience with the grittiness of their performances. 

If there is one thing to take away from this review, it is not one to miss. You may laugh, you may be fighting back tears, but one thing is certain…this experience will stay with you after you leave. We hope you enjoy it as much as we did. 

War Horse will be showing at the Regent Theatre until Saturday 8th March 2025 - tickets are available on ATG Tickets here