War Horse Review at National Theatre London

Based on Michael Morpurgo’s 1982 novel, War Horse returns to the National Theatre nearly two decades after its debut. Adapted for the stage by Nick Stafford, it is a heartwarming and moving tale of a young soldier and his horse, and the enduring power of hope, love and friendship during the First World War.

Tom Sturgess is wonderful as Albert, whose devotion to his horse Joey takes him from rural Devon to the trenches of France, after his father sells him to the army. We see him care for Joey as a young foal, before transforming into a fully grown horse, galloping onto the stage in a mesmerisingly cinematic moment.

War Horse redefines and revolutionises modern puppetry, and the horses are truly breathtaking to behold. Crafted by the Handspring Puppet Company, the magnificence of the award-winning life-like creations is the most incredible feat. Expertly operated and manoeuvred by three people, you really feel as if you are watching a real horse; from the uncanny swish of its tail to the subtle twitch of its ears and even a twinkle in its eye. The unbelievable skill and dexterity of the puppeteers bring our lovable protagonist Joey and his fellow horses to life, conjuring a magic that is hard to put into words.

The action plays out against the backdrop of what appears to be a giant torn sheet of paper above the stage, upon which Rae Smith’s animated illustrations are projected. Initially lush and idyllic countryside is replaced by nightmarish figures in gas masks, their faces growing larger, silently screaming in horror. There is a beautiful and sobering moment when the stage is covered with the dead bodies of fallen soldiers, and the screen fills with a blood red, which slowly seeps across and fills the background before transforming into a field of poppies.

Adrian Sutton’s score and John Tams’ folk songs are hauntingly performed by Sally Swanson, who intermittently appears with her accordion as the play’s narrative voice. Other singers occasionally join in, following the soldiers as “Goodbye Dolly I must leave you” chillingly echoes in their wake.

There is a very moving moment where a British and German soldier lay down their weapons to free the injured Joey from a tangle of barbed wire. The shared act of gentle kindness and respect for the innocent creature amidst the horrors around them is a poignant comment on universal humanity, and the play’s resounding message about the futility of war is as relevant today as ever.

War Horse plays at the National Theatre until 30 July 2026.

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Reviewed by Gala Woolleyfor SeatPlan, June 2026.