War Horse galloping on to Birmingham Hippodrome stage

Performances will run at the Hurst Street venue from October 17 to November 9, 2013. War Horse tells the story of a young boy called Albert and his beloved horse, Joey, who has been requisitioned to fight for the English in the First World War.

Caught in enemy crossfire, Joey ends up serving on both sides during the war before landing in no man's land, while Albert, not old enough to enlist, embarks on a treacherous mission to find his horse and bring him home. The tale of courage, loyalty and friendship features ground-breaking puppetry work by South Africa's Handspring Puppet Company, which brings breathing and galloping horses to life on stage.

The play is based on a novel by Michael Morpurgo, adapted by Nick Stafford and presented in association with Handspring Puppet Company.

National Theatre producer Chris Harper said: "We are delighted that our production of War Horse will soon be touring the UK and Ireland and we are particularly thrilled that the tour opens in Devon, where the play is set." Stuart Griffiths, chief executive of Birmingham Hippodrome said: "War Horse is without a doubt one of the theatrical masterpieces of recent years, and will be a major highlight of our 2013 season."

The Hippodrome is bringing the production to Birmingham in partnership with Pertemps, which is supporting the venue's Stage Appeal.

Tim Watts, chairman of Pertemps Network Group, said: "We are very proud to be working in partnership with Birmingham Hippodrome for the National Theatre's tour of War Horse. This has been one of the most talked-about theatre productions of recent times, and will be a truly exciting and popular event of the year."

Tickets go on general sale in January.