The Boy at the Back of the Class — A Powerful and Timely Reminder of the Importance of Kindness
On Tuesday evening, I was invited to New Theatre to review The Boy at the Back of the Class — a stage adaptation of The Boy at the Back of the Class, the much-loved and award-winning novel by Onjali Q. Raúf. Originally written for younger readers, the story follows a group of schoolchildren who become determined to help Ahmet, a young refugee who has recently joined their class after fleeing war in Syria. Through their eyes, the audience is taken on a heartfelt journey exploring friendship, empathy, and the realities faced by those forced to leave their homes in search of safety.
Bringing such an emotionally rich and sensitive story to the stage is no easy feat, but this production succeeds beautifully. From the moment the curtain rose, there was a warmth and energy that drew the audience in. The performances across the cast were exceptional, capturing both the humour and heartbreak woven throughout the story. The young characters felt authentic and relatable, while the emotional weight of Ahmet’s experience was handled with remarkable care and sensitivity.
“a deeply moving and beautifully staged production ”
What made this production so affecting was its ability to balance moments of genuine joy and laughter with scenes of real emotional depth. There were several points throughout the evening where the audience sat in complete silence, fully absorbed by the story unfolding on stage — a testament to just how moving the production was.
At its heart, The Boy at the Back of the Class is a story about kindness — about taking the time to understand someone else’s experience, and recognising the humanity we all share. In a world that can often feel divided, and at a time when stories of displacement and conflict dominate the headlines, that message feels especially important.
This is a deeply moving and beautifully staged production that resonates far beyond its final curtain call. It reminds us all — children and adults alike — to lead with compassion, to listen more carefully, and to treat one another with greater understanding. A powerful piece of theatre, and one that feels incredibly timely.
To book your tickets head on over to the New Theatre Website here.