'Nobody would get in this boat unless they had to. Me and my family, we had to.'
When they learn that Ahmet came to the UK after fleeing his own war‑torn country, his classmates have 'The Greatest Idea in the World' – a magnificent plan to reunite Ahmet with his family. What follows is an unexpected and often hilarious adventure, all topped off with a terrific twist.
Based on the best-selling and award-winning novel by Onjali Q. Raúf, this stage adaptation of The Boy at the Back of the Class is a joyful and heartfelt testament to the power of friendship, and a reminder that everyone needs a place to call home.
Nick Ahad's adaptation was first performed in a co-production between the Rose Theatre, Kingston, and Children's Theatre Partnership in 2024, directed by Monique Touko, and was revived on a tour of the UK in 2026. It won Best Family Show at the 2026 Olivier Awards.
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'Joyous… You leave the theatre high on the thought that communication through kindness can overcome all'
" - The Stage
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'A hopeful, heartwarming adaptation… the energising message is that a younger generation might learn to be more compassionate and open-hearted'
" - Guardian
