Watch: Horse show depicts the bravery of battlefields

An equestrian extravaganza from a team that has appeared in Hollywood blockbusters such as War Horse and The King’s Speech is set to thrill audiences in Leeds.
One of the breath-taking scenes from The Final ChargeOne of the breath-taking scenes from The Final Charge
One of the breath-taking scenes from The Final Charge

The Final Charge, packed with death-defying stunts, follows brave soldiers and heroic horses on their journey across the battlefields of the First World War as they encounter enemy fire and terrifying obstacles in their quest for victory.

The high-energy show, featuring pyrotechnics and explosions, is performed by Atkinson Action Horses – who have been training horses for film, TV and live performances for the past 20 years, appearing in productions including Downton Abbey, Game of Thrones; Wuthering Heights; Robin Hood and Wrath of the Titans.

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Horse trainer and horse master Ben Atkinson, who runs the business with his father, said the critically-acclaimed performance showcased daredevil feats so perilous that instead of their usual two shows a day, they limit it to one. The 20-year-old, who could ride before he could walk, said: “This one is simply too dangerous to do twice a day.

One of the breath-taking scenes from The Final ChargeOne of the breath-taking scenes from The Final Charge
One of the breath-taking scenes from The Final Charge

“There are stunts in this show that previously will only have been seen in Hollywood films, like full-scale charges you would see in films with horses hitting the floor, the rider falling and being dragged from their stirrups.”

Ben, who travels the world training and riding horses, has acted as stunt double in countless TV and film productions, including the BBC’s recent adaptation of Jamaica Inn and remake of Poldark, due to air next year.

The Final Charge is on at 3pm tomorrow, Sunday and Monday. Buy tickets on 0113 220 1888 or www.royalarmouries.org. Adults: £8, concessions: £6, family: £25.