The Boy at the Back of the Class
This event is in the past
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.
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.
Based on the award winning book by Onjali Q. Raúf, this Children’s Theatre Partnership and Rose Theatre co-production has been adapted for the stage by Nick Ahad and is directed by Monique Touko.
Important information
Ticket prices: £10 - £28.50
Running time: Approximately 2 hours including interval
Age recommendation: 7+
Concessions
Supporters and all Friends First night Drama – 50% Off
Friends – 5% Off
Gold and Best Friends – 10% Off
Corporate – £2 Off
060’s – £3 Off bands A-D weekday matinees
U25 – £5 Off Bands A-D Wed and Thu 2pm and Fri 7pm performances
Schools – £16.50 tickets, 1 TA free with every 10, any weekday performance
Groups – Mon – Thu – 20+ 10% Off, 40+ 20% Off, 80+ 25% Off
Resources for teachers
This pack contains practical activity ideas for teachers to choose from, to be used alongside the study of The Boy at the Back of the Class by Onjali Q. Raúf. These activities use creative, active approaches to explore different themes. They can be used in any order and you do not have to use all of them. They can also be adapted for use with different themes and events from the story, or with other stories you study.
Spread the cost of tickets with Pay in 3
This form acts as a reservation request. Once reserved, your tickets will be secured for 48 hours. You will receive your tickets once the first payment has been received.
For more information visit Pay in Instalments
Trailer
Production images
Reviews
‘Hopeful, heart-warming adaptation.’
The Guardian★★★★★
‘Exactly the kind of story we need to be sharing with younger audiences.’
Theatre Weekly★★★★
‘A clear, compassionate children’s play for today.’
Daily Mail★★★★★
‘An incredibly striking piece of theatre.’
Broadway World
Why not visit our restaurant…
Make your theatre trip extra special and dine in Prelude, a fresh and contemporary space inspired by the building’s art deco heritage.
With the hassle taken out, relax and enjoy our seasonal set price menu in Prelude. Your table is reserved for the whole evening, so you can enjoy your dessert and drinks in the show interval. Plus, Theatre Royal Friends can enjoy a 10% discount!
Venue
Fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced produce. Enjoy the best in food and drink at our restaurant Prelude or a quick delicious bite before the show.
Directions to the Theatre Royal. Where to park near the theatre, drop-off & disabled parking plus public transport information.
Up-to-date information on access our building, accessible performances and details on personal assistant tickets.