WAR HORSE returns to Bradford Alhambra this winter as the National Theatre undertakes the play’s 10th anniversary tour.

The theatrical event, based on Michael Morpurgo’s beloved novel, drops back into Bradford from February 14 to March 10, following its sell-out run at the theatre in 2014.

The play, set against the backdrop of the First World War, is described as a remarkable story of courage, loyalty and friendship about a young boy called Albert and his horse Joey.

The show features ground-breaking puppetry work by South Africa’s Handspring Puppet Company, which brings breathing, galloping horses to life on stage.

War Horse, directed by Marianne Elliott and Tom Morris, and adapted by Nick Stafford, became the most successful play in the National Theatre’s history, and has been seen by more than 7 million people worldwide.

Completing an eight-year run at the New London Theatre to 16, it has won 25 awards including the Tony Award for Best Play on Broadway.

War Horse has been seen in 97 cities in 11 countries, including productions on Broadway, in Toronto and Berlin, with touring productions in the UK and Ireland, North America, the Netherlands, Belgium and China.

Michael Morpurgo said: “After a few months rest, out at pasture, Joey, the War Horse and his great team from the National Theatre, are touring the UK again, through to 2019 and during the centenary of the end of the First World War.

“I am so pleased this is happening; that so many more people will have the chance to enjoy this unique theatrical event. Steady boy, steady Joey. Trot on!”’

Visit bradford-theatres.co.uk or call 01274 432000 to book tickets for War Horse.