Michael Morpurgo's Farm Boy @ Lichfield Garrick

The author Michael Morpurgo is a brilliant story teller and his Farm Boy story is no exception. This production has at its core a story that hooks you in and keeps you captivated. A grandfather and his grandson talk you through stories from their family that intertwine with the history of World War One and life on a farm.

This play had parts that made me smile and chuckle but more parts that gave me goosebumps and a ripple of emotion. When grandfather made a confession and called on his grandson to help him, I was hooked waiting to hear the burden that he had born for his entire life. No spoilers though, come and see the play for yourself.

The music in Farm Boy is an original score written by Matt Marks. It enhanced the story telling evoking memories and pictures in my mind. This combined with the strength of the story is clearly the reason the show has been at the Edinburgh Fringe and 'off Broadway' in New York.

Throughout the show, there are just two actors on the stage: Grandpa and his grandson. Both engaged brilliantly with the audience and my 11 year old particularly enjoyed watching the youthful grandson bound around the stage with enthusiasm and a cheeky smile.

Farm Boy is a home grown production for Lichfield Garrick and a sequel to the well know War Horse production. The show runs at Lichfield Garrick until 10th March with tickets for just £15. Following this run, it tours around community venues including Armitage Village Hall and Weston Village Hall with prices around £7.50- £10.

This play is recommended for ages 8+

Tickets can be booked here: https://www.lichfieldgarrick.com/whats-on/drama/farm-boy/3237

Special thanks to Lichfield Garrick for inviting us along to review the show. Photo credit to Pamela Raith.

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