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A Children's Theatre Partnership and Rose Theatre production

The Boy at the Back of the Class

Based on the novel by Onjali Q. Raúf. Adapted by Nick Ahad. Directed by Monique Touko

Wed 25 to Sat 28 Feb 2026

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.

★★★★
“A children’s play for today.”
Daily Mail

★★★★
“Not just engaging and relatable, but educational in the best sense.”
WhatsOnStage

★★★★★
“A beautifully moving story – an incredibly striking piece of theatre.”
Broadway World

★★★★★
“A genuinely touching piece of theatre.”
Theatre Weekly