WAR HORSE HAS RETURNED TO THE NATIONAL THEATRE
Few productions have captured the hearts of audiences around the world quite like War Horse. Returning to the National Theatre, the Olivier Award-winning production once again brings Michael Morpurgo's beloved novel to life in a spectacular theatrical experience that remains as moving today as it was when it first premiered.
Photo Credit: Felicity Donnelly, Lewis McBean, Matthew Lawrence, Alexandra Donnachie, Chris Milford, and Andrew Keay in War Horse 2026 Brinkhoff-Moegenburg
Adapted by Nick Stafford and directed by Tom Morris with revival direction by Katie Henry, War Horse tells the extraordinary story of Joey, a young horse sold to the cavalry during the First World War, and Albert, the Devon farm boy determined to bring him home. Set against the backdrop of one of history's most devastating conflicts, the production explores friendship, courage, hope and the unbreakable bond between humans and animals.
Photo Credit: Anita Adam Gabay and Joey in War Horse 2026 at the National Theatre, Brinkhoff-Moegenburg
Since its world premiere at the National Theatre in 2007, War Horse has become one of Britain's greatest theatrical success stories. The production has toured extensively across the UK and internationally, earning widespread critical acclaim and winning more than 25 major awards, including the Olivier Award for Best New Play and five Tony Awards on Broadway.
At the heart of the production are the breathtaking life-sized horse puppets, created by South Africa's Handspring Puppet Company. Operated by teams of skilled puppeteers, Joey and Topthorn are astonishingly lifelike, capturing every movement, breath and emotion with remarkable precision. Their performances continue to leave audiences in awe, demonstrating the extraordinary artistry that has made War Horse a landmark in modern theatre.
Photo Credit: Joey (Alexandra Donnachie), Anita Adam Gabay in War Horse 2026 at the National Theatre, Brinkhoff-Moegenburg
Visually stunning throughout, the production combines innovative puppetry with atmospheric lighting, stirring music and projected illustrations inspired by the original book, creating an immersive theatrical experience that seamlessly blends spectacle with deeply emotional storytelling.
As War Horse returns to the National Theatre, a new generation has the opportunity to discover one of the defining productions of the 21st century, while longtime fans can revisit a performance that continues to resonate nearly two decades after its debut. With themes of resilience, sacrifice and hope that remain profoundly relevant, the production is as powerful and poignant as ever.
Whether experiencing it for the first time or returning once more to Joey and Albert's unforgettable journey, War Horse remains an extraordinary celebration of storytelling and theatrical innovation, one that continues to stand among the National Theatre's greatest achievements.