I saw the most breathtaking theater production of an adaption of a childrens book at the National Theater in London. It is called Warhorse. It was done with life size horse puppets and dancers manipulating the movements of the horse. The most moving and visually beautiful thing I have seen in ages.
If you want to you can watch this clip!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q-bni4QqSv4