Farm Boy

Four Stars

Farm Boy is based on the book by award-winning children’s author Michael Morpurgo and is the sequel to his World War One novel War Horse. It is an enthusiastic piece of storytelling, guaranteed to keep your attention throughout. There is no scenery and only a few props, like the tractor, but the piano music and lighting set the scene and change the mood as necessary. The actors’ descriptions and actions help you picture the scene clearly like you’re actually there.

The actors Matt Powell and John Walters play the characters really well and have a close relationship that you can really believe in. There are some sad parts but enough laughs – especially when grandpa learns to read and the chicken catching at the fair. There is an exciting ploughing race between the tractor and two horses – but who will win? If you want excellent storytelling, great acting and some comedy this play is for you! [Samantha Ovenstone]

Four Stars

Set years after War Horse, Morpurgo’s Farm Boy is an exploration into how the introduction of machinery affected British farming. This stage adaptation is centred around a cherished 1922 Fordson Tractor – a character in its own right. The Fordson dominates both the stage and the attention of grandfather and grandson as they delve into the past to tell the story of how the tractor came to live in their barn. The bond between the kindly grandfather and the grandson, sparkling with youth and vitality, is a joy to watch as the two actors effortlessly bring the story to life. It is to the performers’ credit that the audience are transported into their world without the aid of elaborate props or staging. This is a heartwarming piece of theatre that paints a sentimental picture of the innocence of rural living and an unbreakable family bond. [Louise Black]