GLOBE Columnist Peter Grant says it's time to look forward to some theatrical magic.

War Horse is on his way ...

The multi-award-winning First World War drama is coming to Liverpool later this year for its premiere in the city.

But before the tour arrives for two weeks in November, the Wirral Globe had a special preview at the Liverpool Empire to meet a famous four-legged friend called Joey.

And it was a chance to meet the men with more than a hand in its success - the three puppeteers Sam Clark (the head); Michael Taibi (the heart) and Derek Arnold (the hind).

Sam told me: "We know the show and Joey has brought people to tears."

This talented trio from South Africa's Handspring Theatre Company make Joey a breathing and galloping animal (see our video).

Video by Literally Productions

War Horse is the powerful story of a young boy called Albert and his beloved horse, Joey, who has been requisitioned to fight for the British in World War 1.

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 enslist, embarks on on a treacherous mission to find his horse and bring him home.

It is a tale of loyalty, courage and friendship.

Local schoolchildren were open-mouthed as Joey came along to meet them.

They marvelled at this wonderful puppet construction that is so realistic - weighing in at eight stone.

Some believed he was real - one boy asking how much food he ate.

The show itself is poignant, funny and visually stunning.

I have seen it at the National Theatre and it was one of the most memorable evenings I have spent in the theatre.

War Horse - first a book, then a stage show and film - has wowed audiences across the world.

The producers are genuinely excited to saddle up for the run which is expected to be a sell-out.

Matthew Forbes, assistant puppetry director, told the Globe: "We ran for eight years in London and have been seen by seven million people worlwide since 2007.

"The whole company are thrilled - we really are in bringing this much-loved show to Merseyside."

Welcoming the Wirral Globe to the 'invite only' preview, Diane Belding, general manager of the Liverpool Empire Theatre, said: "We're delighted to play host to this iconic, critically-acclaimed production on its first ever vsit to the the city.

"We are sure that people from all parts of the area including both sides of the river - will take this extraordinary play to their hearts."

And its author Michael Morpurgo added: "After a few months rest, out at pasture, Joey, the War Horse and his great team from the National Theatre, will be touring the UK again, from 2017 through to 2018 and the centenary of the end of the First World War, then 2019.

"The NT will be taking their show all over the country, to towns and cities, many of them places War Horse has not been seen before. 

"I am so pleased this is happening in Liverpoool a place of importance in art and culture.

"Steady boy, steady Joey. Trot on!"

The tour of War Horse coincides with the Centenary commemorations of the end of the First World War.  

It is at the Liverpool Empire from November 15 to December 2.

Tickets from 0844871 3017

More details from www.warhorseonstage.