From Press Release
In honour of March Break, WAR HORSE explores the time of World War One, the Great War as it was called. This was the world event that launched the 20th century and in many ways defined what the rest of the century would become. Everything changed during WWI — national borders, politics, society, even warfare. Yet, many are still not knowledgeable about this important time in world history. As March Break is a time to connect and share information, we have assembled a remarkable Speakers’ Series, to explore the themes and subjects that WAR HORSE touches upon.
These are FREE pre-show talks that will take place one hour before each performance in the theatre’s Princess Lounge, (lower level).
Enhance your experience and understanding of WAR HORSE. Each audience member at the pre-show talk will also receive a complimentary commemorative WAR HORSE item.
Tuesday, March 13, 6:30 – 7:00 PM
The Great War on Stage
Toronto Star Theatre Critic Richard Ouzounian gives a talk on how WWI has been and is currently portrayed on the stage – from Oh What a Lovely War to War Horse.
Wednesday, March 14, 12:30 – 1:00 PM
Police Horses in Toronto
Toronto Mounted Police Staff Inspector Bill Wardle shares how the Toronto Police Mounted Unit train, care, work and bond with their horses.
Wednesday, March 14, 6:30 -7:00 PM
The Experience of the Great War Soldier
WWI Historian Tim Gillies presents his personal Great War collection, including deactivated rifles, airplane propellor, gas masks, complete saddle, blacksmithing tools, helmets and uniforms. Of special interest will be the reproduction uniforms that audience members will be allowed to try on.
Thursday, March 15, 6:30 – 7:00 PM
Behind the Scenes at WAR HORSE
Resident Director Tracey Flye and Associate Puppetry Director Tommy Luther share the behind-the-scenes stagecraft of WAR HORSE. They will speak about the rehearsal process, the preparations involved in becoming a horse, and things to watch for during the show.
Friday, March 16, 6:30 – 7:00 PM
The Battles of WWI
Educator, War Historian and Tour Leader Dave Robinson speaks about the role of Canadians in the war and the two defining battles for this country: the Battle of Vimy Ridge and the Battle of the Somme.
Saturday, March 17, 12:30 – 1:00 PM
WWI Through the Eyes of Teenagers
Many of the soldiers who fought in WWI were in their late teens. Appropriately, the Beaverbrook Vimy Prize is given each year to high school students who study WWI and who are about the same age as the soldiers. Three prizewinners share their knowledge of WWI and their experiences of travelling through England, France and Belgium, studying with experts along the way.
Saturday, March 17, 6:30 – 7:00 PM
World War II veteran Sam Garnet
World War II veteran and Historica Memory Project participant Sam Garnet, Wireless Air Gunner on loan to the RAF, shares his experience of enlisting and going to war as a young man.
Sunday, March 18, 12:30 – 1:00 PM
The Anatomy and Movement of Horses
University of Guelph Professor of Veterinary Anatomy Dr. Jeff Thomason uses a functional skeletal horse leg to demonstrate how horses move, and the motions that the actors inside of Joey and Topthorn must learn to perform. Additionally he’ll delve into the use of horses as war machines, and the perils of horses battling tanks.
WAR HORSE, produced by The National Theatre of Great Britain, National Angels,Bob Boyett and David Mirvish, based on a novel by Michael Morpurgo, adapted by Nick Stafford in association with Handspring Puppet Company, opened February 28th to rave reviews at the Princess of Wales Theatre.
War Horse is now playing until September 30th, 2012
at the Princess of Wales Theatre, 300 King Street Westwww.mirvish.com
Tickets range from $25 to $130
at the Princess of Wales Theatre, 300 King Street Westwww.mirvish.com
Tickets range from $25 to $130
Tues – Sat 7:30PM, Wed, Sat & Sun 1:30PM