BETA International Welcomes War Horse

Visitors to BETA International are in for a treat when the hit West End production War Horse plays a starring role in the 2012 trade fair. Topthorn, a life-size black stallion puppet, and actors from the show will travel from London to give a spellbinding performance in the Sherwood Forest Horse Demonstration & Seminar Arena on Monday 20 February.

“We are thrilled that War Horse is coming to the trade fair,” said Claire Thomas, commercial manager of BETA International organiser Equestrian Management Consultants (EMC). “It has inspired and entertained audiences both in the West End and on Broadway, and we are very pleased that our visitors and exhibitors will have the opportunity to sample some of this enchanting tale.”

Topthorn is one of several life-size puppets that star in the spectacular production based on the novel by Michael Morpurgo. The play, originally performed at the National Theatre, is brought to life by actors working alongside the puppets of the Handspring Puppet Company. Director Steven Spielberg’s film version is released in Britain next month.

BETA International is the world’s leading trade fair for the equestrian, pet products and country clothing sectors. It takes place at the NEC, Birmingham, from 19 to 21 February.