Being honest there are very few productions which genuinely deserve the 'must see' tag, much beloved by reviewers, being awarded to them.

But it would be criminal not to apply it to the National Theatre production of War Horse currently at The Lowry.

If this production doesn't move you, you have the heart of a weasel.

Tom Sturgess as Albert Narracott with Joey in War Horse (Picture: Brinkhoff-Moegenburg)

This compelling story takes you from an idyllic Devon village to the horrors of the Somme in the First World War told through the relationship between Albert Narracott and his horse Joey.

Based on the novel by Michael Morpurgo, it's a great story to start with but in the hands of this company it takes on a whole new dimension.

Be warned, your emotions will be taken through the mangle. There are some genuinely comedic moments - a maniac goose and a potty-mouthed sergeant major are great value - but it's also harrowing, heartwarming and thought-provoking in equal measure.

Even if you haven't seen the production, chances are you will be aware of the horses themselves - Joey and Thopthorn and baby Joey. Each are operated by a team of three.

For the production I saw they were Joey - Rianna Ash (head), Chris Milford (heart), Thomas Goodridge (hind); Topthorn - Matthew Lawrence (head), Rafe Young (heart), Felicity Donnelly (hind) and Baby Joey - Diany Samba-Bandza (head), Jordan Paris (heart), Eloise Beaumnt-Wood (hind) and it would be criminal if they didn't get a mention.

What they do is to imbue life into these magnificent creations. Within minutes you accept that standing in front of you on stage is a fully sentient, living, breathing horse. Every flick of the tail, every twist of the ear signifies something. It is truly astonishing to witness.

Their human counterparts aren't exactly shabby either. Tom Sturgess is superb as Albert. When Joey is sold to the army and a life on the front line, he is determined to keep his promise they will be reunited. And so we see him grow up before our eyes.

Alexander Ballinger, as Captain Friedrich Muller, the horse loving German officer who has come to realise the futility of the struggle is a compelling character and Jo Castleton as Albert's mum Rose is equally impressive.

Read also: Michael Morpurgo talks about the inspiration behind War Horse

But then so is everyone is this large cast. Special mention though to Sally Swanson as the singer, whose plaintive folk songs form a soundtrack to the action unfolding before you.

Then there is the staging - an ever-changing backdrop looking like pages from a sketchbook is mightily impressive, particularly in reliving the nightmare of trench warfare. Add in some great lighting and the horror of war really is brought home.

War Horse raises questions about humanity, the futile nature of war and the loss of innocence.

As the tension mounts to a fabulous, emotionally-draining climax you will definitely be reaching for the hankies. But at the end you will be both uplifted and slightly stunned, knowing that you have witnessed something very special indeed.

Until Saturday, September 28. Details from www.thelowry.com