Last night we attended the Merlin Annual Pass exclusive preview event for Warwick Castle’s latest show War of the Roses Live. So, here are my thoughts on the overall show!
You can watch War of the Roses Live from the 24th of July until the 5th of September at Warwick Castle. Entry is included with your day tickets or Merlin Annual Passes. Book your visit now, LINK HERE.
The Story: (Information Source – Warwick Castle)
It’s 1455 and the House of Lancaster holds the English throne. King Henry VI’s crown is challenged by the House of York. The rival houses clash in battle and the bloody war that ensues was to last over 30 years.
The Arena:
The arena is situated at the back of the castle over the bridge. Upon entering the arena you choose the side you wish to support which is either Team York or Team Lanc. It accommodates a fair a few people to watch and has three-tier stands so everyone has a good view regardless of who’s in front of you. However, I would recommend little ones perhaps standing at the rope at the very front for the best possible view, in case someone tall stands in front of them. The stalls are underneath a canopy which is perfect for those hotter days but also the rainy days. As for the show set-up, it looks fab and pretty well-themed.
Audio:
The audio is actually amazing and is the perfect undertone as you await the show. Throughout the show, there is various audio used to enhance what is happening before your eyes. All cast that has speaking parts also wear a mic which is ideal so everyone has a clear understanding of the show and what the performers are saying at all times. 
The Build-Up:
Before the show began a small number of performers entered the arena to get the crowd hyped up and ready for the show to commence. It made the atmosphere electric and got everyone in the mood for what was about to happen. They got us chanting the teams and coloured roses we had chosen. The actors were interacting with the crowd, especially the children which were lovely to watch. The build-up was definitely fab.
The Performers & Horses:
All of the performers were outstanding and played their roles beautifully. Considering the intense heat during our showing they handled it so well and professionally. Each character had a role to fulfil and which they did at a very high quality too. I was extremely impressed by how well-trained the horses were and they were super cute too. All of the performers deserve so much praise for how well they played the show out and for their stunts too.
The Experience:
The experience is filled with stunts, tricks and showmanship with special effects too. It is an entire experience that the whole family can enjoy and participate in with plenty of chanting, booing and cheering to be done. Throughout the show, there is horseback battles which are outstanding and stunt riding plus so much more. As for the entire experience, it’s hard to not get gripped by the story and how it’s played out. The story-telling is clear enough for the entire audience to understand and follow, there is certainly no areas in which you can lose focus. For more information in regards to the story please read the first subheader above. 
Overall:
The show overall was brilliant and the atmosphere throughout was outstsanding. All of the performers, horses, audio, special effects and stunts all tied into create one of our personal favourite shows. If your visiting Warwick Castle Saturday onwards you must check out this show, it’s not one to be missed. It’s a really fun way of your little ones learning about history as well as all round great fun for everyone to enjoy.
Thank you so much for reading and I’d love to hear as to whether you intend to check out this show!
