The Boy at the Back of the Class
Come along on a heartfelt and often hilarious adventure as a group of friends set out on a quest to reunite their new classmate with his family.
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.
Told from a child’s perspective, balancing heart and humour, the 2026 Olivier Award nominee for ‘Best Family Show’, 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.
Based on the book by Onjali Q. Raúf, adapted for the stage by Nick Ahad and directed by Monique Touko. A Children’s Theatre Partnership and Rose Theatre production.
Need to know
All adults and children need a ticket, except for babes in arms aged 18 months and under at the time of the performance who don’t need their own seat. Under-12s must be seated next to an accompanying adult.
Reviews
‘A lovely, warm-hearted celebration of courage and friendship’The Guardian
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Access
To book tickets for BSL interpretation, email [email protected] or call us on 020 3879 9555.
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For your visit
This event is held at the Queen Elizabeth Hall Southbank Centre
The Queen Elizabeth Hall is open from 90 minutes before events start until they finish. It’s closed at all other times.
Plan your visit
The Queen Elizabeth Hall is home to both our second-largest auditorium and the Purcell Room.
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Access
We’re working hard to remove barriers, so that our facilities and events can be accessible to as many people as possible.
All help points, toilets, performance and exhibition spaces at the Southbank Centre are accessible to all, as are the cafes, bars and restaurants. We also have excellent public transport links with step-free access.
All information about booking wheelchair spaces, step-free access, blue badge parking, access maps and guides and other help available whilst you’re here, including details about our Access Scheme, can be found on our Access page.
Food & drink
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