War house what part did the actor say he was playing onstage?

In the film "War Horse," the character Albert Narracott, played by Jeremy Irvine, mentions that he is playing the role of "Joey" during a scene where he connects with the horse. This moment highlights the bond between the character and the horse, emphasizing the emotional depth of their relationship amidst the backdrop of war. The performance symbolizes themes of loyalty and the impact of war on both humans and animals.