- Play Hard
- 22nd Aug 2025
- 0
- 0 minute
The global phenomenon War Horse returns to Newcastle Theatre Royal
- Advertisement Feature
The National Theatre’s multi-award-winning production of War Horse is finally making its debut at Newcastle Theatre Royal – and we couldn’t be more excited.
From Wednesday 10th – Saturday 20th September 2025, you’ll get your first chance to experience the emotive play that pulls at the heartstrings and will blow you away.
If you’ve ever wanted to see a theatrical show that captivates from start to finish, this is it.
A SHOW THAT CONQUERED THE WORLD
Since its first performance at the National Theatre back in 2007, War Horse has become nothing short of a global sensation. Adapted by Nick Stafford from Michael Morpurgo’s beloved novel, and originally directed by Marianne Elliott and Tom Morris, the play has been seen by more than 8.3 million people worldwide and scooped over 25 major awards, including the coveted Tony Award for Best Play.
THE STORY THAT WILL STEAL YOUR HEART
At its core, War Horse tells the deeply moving story of Albert and his beloved horse, Joey. When Joey is sold to the Cavalry at the outbreak of World War One, he’s thrust into the chaos of the Western Front. From galloping into battle to surviving no man’s land, Joey’s journey is one of courage, survival and resilience.
But this isn’t just a war story. It’s a tale of friendship, loyalty and the unbreakable bond between boy and horse. Albert, too young to enlist, sets out on a dangerous mission of his own to bring Joey home. Cue tears, goosebumps and a standing ovation (trust us, you’ll need tissues).
PUPPETRY THAT’LL BLOW YOUR MIND
One of the things that makes War Horse truly unforgettable is its ground-breaking puppetry, created by South Africa’s Handspring Puppet Company. These life-sized horses breathe, snort, gallop and charge across the stage with such realism that within minutes, you’ll forget they’re puppets at all.
If you’ve seen Life of Pi at Newcastle Theatre Royal in 2024, you’ll already know the sheer genius Handspring brings to the stage. But War Horse really takes it to a whole new level.
A STAR-STUDDED CREATIVE TEAM
This brand-new tour has been lovingly revived by an award-winning creative team. With Tom Morris back at the helm alongside revival director Katie Henry, audiences can expect reimagined designs by Rae Smith, additional music by Adrian Sutton and mesmerising lighting, sound and choreography.
A STORY THAT STILL RESONATES TODAY
Why does War Horse continue to move audiences nearly two decades after its premiere? As Michael Morpurgo himself says, it’s because it’s not just about war – it’s about “family and community, courage and loss, hope and most importantly reconciliation.”
With 2025 marking 110 years since the start of World War One and the 40th anniversary of Morpurgo’s novel, there’s never been a more perfect time to revisit this story.
IT’S TIME FOR WAR HORSE TO TROT INTO THE TOON
The excitement is real, as this will be the first time War Horse visits Newcastle Theatre Royal. And with local theatre legend Michael Harrison (the man behind the Theatre Royal’s record-breaking pantos) co-producing, you can bet this will be an evening to remember.
Tickets are available now at theatreroyal.co.uk or via the Box Office on 0191 232 7010.
Rachael Ellis
Head of Content
After gaining a first in her BA Media and Journalism degree at Northumbria University, Rachael worked at Newcastle’s leading regional newspaper with her stories being picked up in national and global newspapers. She spent two very successful years giving a voice to those communities across the North East who otherwise…
Subscribe
Subscribe now to receive our twice-weekly emails and exclusive offers for High Life North readers.