Cast and creatives announced for world premiere of The Boy at the Back of the Class

The Rose Theatre, in partnership with the Children’s Theatre Partnership, has today announced the complete cast and creative team for the world premiere of the stage adaptation of The Boy at the Back of the Class.

This production, based on Onjali Q. Raúf’s critically acclaimed and best-selling children’s book, is set to open in Kingston upon Thames, followed by a nationwide tour.

The stage adaptation, penned by Nick Ahad and under the direction of Monique Touko, is scheduled to debut at the Rose Theatre on 3 February. The show will run until 22 February, with a special Press Night on 8 February, before embarking on a tour that will last until June.

The cast features Priya Davdra as Mrs Khan/Mum, Sasha Desouza-Willock in the role of Alexa, Megan Grech and Adam Seridji as Ensemble/Understudies, Abdul-Malik Janneh as Michael, Petra Joan-Athene portraying Josie, Joe McNamara in the role of Brendan, Gordon Millar as Tom, Farshid Rokey playing Ahmet and Zoe Zak as Clarissa.

The creative team comprises Monique Touko (Director), Lily Arnold (Set & Costume Designer), Ryan Day (Lighting Designer), Giles Thomas (Composer & Sound Designer), Kloé Dean (Movement Director), Sophie Parrott CDG (Casting Director), Maisie Carter (Fight Director), and Amy Crighton (Assistant Director).

The Boy at the Back of the Class is a moving and humorous tale that emphasizes the importance of kindness. It tells the story of Ahmet, a young refugee, through the eyes of his classmates. It’s a heartwarming narrative that underscores the strength of friendship and the impact of kindness in a world that can often seem confusing and harsh. This poignant tale, full of humour and heart, is a reminder that everyone deserves a place they can call home.

Christopher Haydon, Artistic Director of Rose Theatre said: “I am beyond thrilled to be bringing Onjali Q Raúf’s remarkable story to the stage. I love its warmth and the way it combines an exciting adventure with such piercing emotional honesty about the plight facing refugees today. I’ve always felt passionately about the need to support refugees and advocate for their rights, and it is vital, for me, that all our work at the Rose has the values of inclusion and tolerance at heart.”

For more information and tickets, visit rosetheatre.org