There used to be an empty chair at the back of the class, but now a new boy called Ahmet is sitting in it.
He’s nine years old (just like me), but he’s very strange. He never talks and never smiles and doesn’t like sweets – not even lemon sherbets, which are my favourite!
After learning that he has fled his own war-torn country, Ahmet’s classmates have ‘The Greatest Idea in the World’ – a magnificent plan to reunite Ahmet with his family. An unexpected and often hilarious adventure follows, all topped off with a terrific twist. Told from a child’s perspective, balancing heart and humour, The Boy at the Back of the Class highlights the power of friendship and kindness in a world that doesn’t always make sense and reminds us that everyone needs a place to call home.
Ages: 7+
Reviews
★★★★★ ‘At its heart this was a play about social action. It intended to tug at heart strings and the standing ovation it received speaks for itself’.
★★★★★ ‘In the most part The Boy At The Back Of The Class is wonderfully funny, but I’m not ashamed to admit I found myself wiping away a tear more than once. This is a genuinely touching piece of theatre, and with a government hell-bent on demonising refugees, is exactly the kind of story we need to be sharing with younger audiences.’
★★★★★ ‘Monique Touko expertly directs the show, with playfulness and a captivating energy that immerses us in the children’s world.’
★★★★ ‘Grippingly directed by Monique Touko and thoughtfully adapted by Nick Ahad from Onjali Q Raúf's award-winning 2018 novel, it's also an action-packed multiple adventure story with many more humorous – and joyous – moments than you might expect.’
★★★★ ‘Monique Touko’s dynamic, pop-infused production does a good job of keeping up the momentum of the story, aided by Lily Arnold’s adaptable gymnasium set.’
★★★★ ‘Direction by Monique Touko is energetic and fast-paced, meaning audience members of all ages are engaged throughout.’
★★★★ ‘Ahad and Touko’s adaptation is almost perfect. Despite being aimed at children, this production is for everyone.
Amongst the comical classroom chaos, this is a powerful and poignantly relevant story that has been beautifully brought to life.’
★★★★ ‘With sharp and energetic direction by Monique Touko, audiences are taken on a journey through Ahmet’s travel across the sea and borders into the recognisable British classroom and into the imagination of a child.’
★★★★ ‘While the subject matter is serious, there are some very funny moments bringing some light-hearted relief. It is charming, poignant, and also genuinely moving.’