Jane McGowan goes behind the scenes of the acclaimed production of War Horse, to find out what life is like for puppeteer extraordinaire Nicky Cross
Michael Morpurgo’s War Horse – the poignant tale of one boy’s relationship with his trusty steed as they leave the peaceful dales of Devon for the hell of First World War France – broke the theatrical mould when it galloped onto the stage in 2008.
The production, a joint venture by the National Theatre and Handspring Puppet Company, became an overnight sensation, thanks in part to Joey – a cane-framed horse worked from within by two puppeteers.
And, as the play arrives in Woking, as part of its anniversary tour (which also coincided with the events to mark the centenary of the Armistice), I was lucky enough to catch up with Nicky Cross, one of the team of 10 puppeteers charged with bringing Joey (along with the play’s other non-human cast) to life.
“It’s the best job in the world,” exclaims Nicky, who admits the piece was on her ‘wish list’ of productions while still at drama school. “But’s it’s a tough gig. It’s very physical and it’s very hot.”
To land the role of her dreams, Nicky underwent a rigorous audition process which covered everything from basic puppet skills, team-building exercises to squats.
“The ones that got through were all keen on exercise,” reveals Nicky. “I think most people would think it was only men who could do the job but the creative team have taken the view that if you’re strong enough and fit enough, that’s what matters. I am very proud to be a woman doing such a role.”
In order to become Joey, Nicky along with another puppeteer, ‘wear’ the mantle of the horse which weighs a staggering 66lbs. Throughout the two-hour-plus performance, the horse walks and gallops, and is ridden by and has to interact with, a variety of actors. Nicky likens the fitting to the harness-style safety device worn on rollercoasters.
“It does take a bit of getting used to,” she admits. “But, after the audition process, we were aware of what it would mean joining the company and we are really looked after. We have a physio who travels with us and we are all aware of just how much we need to look after our bodies. We have to eat well and treat ourselves like sportsmen and women.”
Since leaving drama school, Nicky has worked in puppet theatre, ‘straight’ acting and also stand-up. But the role of Joey is one that has really made an impact.
“It’s such a moving piece, and the audience reaction is wonderful,” she says. “Towards the end of the show we can hear people reaching into their bags for the tissues and then we know we have done a good job. This is probably the only show where the more the audience forget you’re there the better you feel. You can sense that they believe they are a watching real horse and that’s just how it should be.”
War Horse is at New Victoria Theatre, Woking from Aug 1-18; visit: atgtickets.com
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