War horse it was for last Saturday night’s viewing, and what a
performance. The London National Theatre parades a brilliant cast and scenery
for Morpurgo’s novel adaptation, and you don’t have to be the jodhpur wearing,
pony hugging type to appreciate the love a boy gots for his trusty steed. Yes it’s
warm and fuzzy (best served with hot chocolate and Malteasers) production that
pleases all audiences however predictable the plot.
Joey the four legged lead is brought to life by South
Africa's Handspring Puppet Company, errrr wow! The breathing, twitching, gallop
and grace are all part of the beautiful artistry that is a little bit
outstanding and you soon forget that each horse is built of steel, leather and
aircraft cables.
My
only bugbear was Albert’s (lead boy) Devonshire twang. Whether it was his
shrill boyish enthusiasm I don’t know (YES, YES IT WAS) but then I guess this
gives the play universal appeal and idealises youth and WW1 comradeship.
That, and the
fact that his mother did not resemble Julie Walters. Otherwise I’m in the
saddle!
