THE world-renowned play War Horse, celebrated as the National Theatre’s most successful production, is set to captivate audiences at Theatre Royal Plymouth this autumn. 

Running for two weeks from November 26 to December 7, the production will feature a full cast of 35 talented individuals.

Based on the international novel by Devon-baed Michael Morpurgo, War Horse is a powerfully moving and imaginative drama filled with compelling music and songs. 

The show is known for its phenomenal inventiveness, particularly the life-sized horses created by South Africa’s Handspring Puppet Company, which bring breathing, galloping, and charging horses to life on stage.

The story begins at the outbreak of World War One when Joey, young Albert’s beloved horse, is sold to the Cavalry and shipped to France, where he embarks on an extraordinary journey through enemy fire and No Man’s Land. Meanwhile, Albert, who remains on his parents’ Devon farm, sets out on a dangerous mission to find and bring Joey home.

The Plymouth run will feature a stellar cast, including Rianna Ash as one of the puppeteers for Joey and Topthorn, Tom Sturgess as Albert Narracott, Diany Bandza as Emilie and Baby Joey, and Eloise Beaumont-Wood also as Baby Joey, among others.

Since its premiere in 2007, War Horse has inspired a generation of theatre-makers, receiving 25 awards, and has been witnessed by 8.3 million people worldwide. The production’s success is down to its captivating storytelling and innovative staging.

Co-produced by Michael Harrison, Fiery Angel, and Playing Field, this rendition of War Horse promises to be a spectacular performance that continues the legacy of this beloved show. The creative team for this tour, led by Tom Morris with Katie Henry as the revival director, further enhances the internationally acclaimed production with new designs by Rae Smith and additional music by Adrian Sutton.

War Horse has been performed in 97 cities across 14 countries, including notable runs on Broadway, Toronto, Berlin, and various tours in the UK, Ireland and North America. 

This autumn, the production will also once again visit other major UK cities alongside Plymouth, including Wimbledon, Dublin, Oxford, Glasgow and many more, bringing the renowned production to an even wider audience.

The tour marks 110 years since the start of the First World War and celebrates the 40th anniversary of Michael Morpurgo’s novel, which has sold over 35 million copies worldwide in 37 languages. The enduring popularity of both the book and the play highlights their significant impact on audiences around the globe.

The National Theatre’s Partner for Financial Wellbeing, Charles Stanley, is supporting the tour of War Horse, ensuring its continued success and reach. 

For those eager to witness this drama, tickets and more information are available at theatreroyal.com.