‘Mugged’ was written in 2005 and first performed at The National Theatre, ‘Warhorse’ on the other hand, was first written as a children’s novel in 1982 and later adapted to a stage play in 2007. ‘Mugged’ is set in the present day- any generation to come would be able to relate with an aspect of the play. ‘Warhorse’, however, is set in between 1914 and 1918 and therefore no-one would be able to relate to it directly- although, audiences would definitely understand the struggles and hardships of the war.
The play ‘Mugged’ portrays the growing knife culture between youngsters and explores the fear of the public. The play starts off with the victim’s perspective and then onwards switches to the victim’s friend’s perspective to give a voice for victims and their friends. ‘Mugged’ explores the fact of the public being afraid to speak as they are frightened of retribution; the gawpers from the play were prepared to judge youths, but not interested in helping as they were too afraid. The media play an important role in this play because they represent the media of today; twisting the truth solemnly based on the fact that Marky had a knife and that he lived in a block of flats.
Men and women were seen as equal in this play, but the girls were still treated with less respect and treated as if they were objects as oppose to human beings. Like ‘Mugged’, ‘Warhorse’ also included sexism, on the other hand women of that time had to take on roles men would do, such as: making weaponry or farming. ‘Mugged’ demonstrates the society through the media, whilst ‘Warhorse’ uses patriotism and propaganda to illustrate the culture and society of that time.
Lighting, sound effects and projection are some stage techniques ‘Warhorse’ has used- the revolving stage being one the main ones. Unlike ‘Warhorse’, ‘Mugged’ has a much more minimal set if compared to ‘Warhorse’. Only two benches and a bin are used to create the setting of Albion Park. Interestingly, both the plays use different levels; for example, in ‘Mugged’ characters use the benches to stand up on in order to peer into the distance. Similarly, in ‘Warhorse’ the Colonel is lifted up into the air- creating a whole different level for effect. ‘Warhorse’ uses different tones of lighting, military sound effects (bombs, guns etc) and a projection screen in order to create a tense or relaxed atmosphere. ‘Mugged’ on the other hand, includes none of these and is simply up to the actors to create a tense or relaxed mood. It could have been better if sound was used at the time of Marky’s funeral or to introduce the news for effect though. Audiences acknowledge that the setting has changed in ‘Mugged’ through the dialogue used, whilst in ‘Warhorse’ sound effects, lighting and projection take the responsibility of this.
In conclusion, ‘Warhorse’ and ‘Mugged’ have more differences than similarities, I’d say mainly because of their time differences.
