There’s a quiet power in an empty chair, but there’s even more in the person who finally fills it. This spring, the Children’s Theatre Partnership and Rose Theatre are bringing a story to the stage that feels less like a play and more like a collective hug for a world that often feels a bit too loud and confusing.
Based on Onjali Q. Raúf’s multi-award-winning novel (a literal legend on school bookshelves), this stage adaptation by Nick Ahad is currently sweeping across the UK and it arrives in London, at the Queen Elizabeth Hall (Southbank Centre) between 7 and 12 April. With its official Olivier Award nomination for Best Family Show, this superb play is worth seeing before the tour wraps up on 23 May 2026.
The greatest idea in the world
The story is told through the eyes of nine-year-old Alexa (Sasha Desouza-Willock) and her tight-knit group of friends. When a new boy named Ahmet (Serkan Avlik) joins their class, he’s a total mystery. He doesn’t talk, he doesn’t smile, and—most shockingly to Alexa—he doesn’t even like lemon sherbets.
Once the kids realize Ahmet is a refugee who has fled a war-torn country and been separated from his family, they don’t see a political issue. They see a friend in need. What follows is a magnificent plan to reunite Ahmet with his parents—an adventure that is as hilarious as it is high-stakes, proving that nine-year-olds might actually be better at diplomacy than most world leaders.
Why it hits different
- A masterclass in empathy: Directed by the visionary Monique Touko, the production manages to tackle the heavy reality of refugee rights without ever losing its sense of play. It balances the terrific twists and school-gate humour with moments of genuine, breath-holding heart.
- The creative dream team: The world of the classroom comes alive thanks to Lily Arnold’s vibrant set and costume design, paired with a pulsing soundscape by Giles Thomas. It’s immersive, fast-paced, and perfectly tuned to a child’s perspective.
- Physical energy: With movement direction by Kloé Dean and even a fight director (Maisie Carter) on board, the show has a kinetic, “can’t-sit-still” energy that keeps even the youngest audience members gripped.
The verdict
The Boy at the Back of the Class is a timely reminder that kindness is a superpower. In a world of borders and big debates, it brings the conversation back to the basics: friendship, home, and the power of a lemon sherbet. Whether you’re a fan of the book or new to Ahmet’s story, this is a “pioneering” piece of theatre that will leave you feeling a lot braver than when you walked in.
Where: Queen Elizabeth Hall, Southbank Centre 7 – 12 April 2026
Touring the UK until 23 May 2026 – Check local listings for your nearest theatre!
Age 7+ 🎟️ More Info: theboyatthebackoftheclass.co.uk
Visit our events and activities area for more ideas of things to do with kids in London this season. or have a look at our theatre and dance page to see our selection of family friendly shows.