Salford’s Ike Bennett ready to shine in the emotional epic War Horse

Salford actor Ike Bennett is about to star in the juggernaut of a play that is War Horse, based on the best-selling book by Michael Morpurgo.

This heartwarming tale about the loving relationship between horse Joey and his owner Albert returns to the Lowry on a brand new tour, next month.

We caught up with Ike to find out more about he got into acting, Manchester and this beautiful production.

When did you decide you wanted to act?

Funnily enough it was my parents that encouraged me to pursue it. Ever since I was little I always had high energy and my primary school saw that by putting me into the musical Bugsy Malone playing Fat Sam. It was my Year 6 leavers play and I got a lot of laughs! Looking back on it I realise it was a lot of fun – I used a pillow I got from home as stuffing for the gut!

Ever since then, my parents have strongly suggested it’s a career I should pursue and in Year 9 when I was picking my options, I picked Drama and it went up from there.

Do you remember a teacher or mentor who supported you along the way, what did they do to inspire you?

All the teachers I’ve been lucky to have met have all been a huge inspiration to me, but the teacher I think of when it comes to support was my drama school teacher, Claudette Williams at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama.

She is the current head of the Acting course and Voice teacher. Coming from the north to London there were a lot of cultural differences which meant I found it hard to settle and in turn it affected my acting.

She was an advocate of me believing in my talents and to always strive to do the work not just for my career but also for my self-mind, as acting can be a cathartic experience. She instilled in me confidence and wisdom that drops in many years later so I’m eternally grateful to her. (As well as my other tutors!)

Red or Blue?

Blue all the way! CTID!

What do you love about Manchester?

What is there not to love about Manchester? One that sticks out to me is the people. Everyone is salt of the earth and in the northwest we say it how it is with our heart on our sleeve.

Similarly, having lived in London many people have mentioned how our city comes off as friendly and welcoming!

What would you change about the city, if you could?

The increase in the price of beer!

Jokes aside, it would be brilliant for the city as a whole if the huge economic boom the city centre has experienced the last 10 years was spread to other not as developed areas.

There is still so much talent and potential to be discovered and all it takes is a little investment and giving youths more opportunities to thrive.

War Horse is a big show filled with many memorable moments. Are there any scenes during rehearsals that have taken you by surprise?

Without giving it away, the other day I saw for the first time Joey (the horse) growing up and all I can say is it’s a banger!

What would you say to your 14 year old self?

Keep going, when you think you got it figured out, keep going.

Always strive, always learn, and never take peoples’ comments to heart. Life is full and long.

You never know what’s around the corner.

What are you looking forward to the most about performing in Salford?

Sleeping in my own bed!

War Horse is the Lowry from 18th – 28th September and you can book tickets here