About

A Children's Theatre Partnership and Rose Theatre production

The Boy at the Back of the Class based on the book by Onjali Q. Raúf

Adapted for the stage by  Nick Ahad

Directed by  Monique Touko

After delighting audiences across the country, the smash-hit, joyful play based on the best-selling novel is back with a celebration of friendship, kindness and compassion.

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 good friends and courage in a world that doesn't always make sense and reminds us that everyone needs a place to call home.

Winner of the Blue Peter Book Award 2019

Winner of the Waterstones Children's Book Prize 2019

Ages 7+