Sky Arts to broadcast Wonder Boy from Bristol Old Vic

Sky Arts, in collaboration with Bristol Old Vic On Screen, is set to premiere Wonder Boy on TV this month.

The show, filmed during its world premiere at Bristol Old Vic in 2022, will be broadcast on Monday, 27 November at 10PM on Sky Arts and the streaming service NOW.

Wonder Boy, penned by Ross Willis, is a celebration of the uniqueness in each individual. Directed by Olivier Award-winner Sally Cookson (A Monster Calls), the play is a vibrant mix of colour, music, and imagination.

The story revolves around Sonny, a 12-year-old boy facing challenges within the education system due to his stammer. His life takes a turn when he is unexpectedly cast in the school’s production of Hamlet. Sonny, with the help of his inspirational teacher Wainwright and his classmate Roshi, embarks on a transformative journey of self-discovery and acceptance.

Wonder Boy initially staged in March 2022, received critical acclaim and was awarded the 2023 Writers Guild Award for Best New Play.

The production uniquely blends live creative captioning and British Sign Language (BSL) performance with traditional theatre elements and live music, offering an inclusive and accessible theatrical experience. The televised version will feature integrated live creative captioning, making it fully accessible to a wider audience.

Charlotte Geeves, Bristol Old Vic’s Executive Director said: “Wonder Boy‘s success was proof of the ongoing appetite for theatre performances to be available in a variety of ways to counter physical, economic or geographical barriers. We are thrilled to be be able to continue Bristol Old Vic’s partnership with Sky Arts, and to be bringing this film of Wonder Boy to their viewers.

“Ross Willis’ remarkable play received nightly standing ovations when it ran at Bristol Old Vic, and we are grateful to the support of Sky Arts in helping to bring this performance to the screen, allowing a wider audience to delight in this magical production.”