Natasha Lewis is appearing in the 2026 return of The Boy at the Back of the Class, the stage adaptation of Onjali Q. Raúf’s award‑winning children’s novel. The production is presented by the Rose Theatre in partnership with Children’s Theatre Partnership ahead of a UK tour.
Adapted by Nick Ahad and directed by Monique Touko, the show tells a heartfelt and humorous story about friendship, kindness and the experiences of a young refugee, seen through the eyes of classmates determined to help.
The Boy at the Back of the Class runs at the Rose Theatre in Kingston upon Thames from 6–22 February 2026, followed by a UK tour. Tickets can be booked here.
You’re starring in The Boy at the Back of the Class at the Rose Theatre – what can you tell us about the show?
The show is about Ahmet, a nine‑year‑old boy from Syria who arrives alone in the UK as a refugee and joins a new school. The production is very true to the book in that it explores the struggles he faces when placed in such a different environment while cultivating new relationships.
It deals with themes of loss, fear and isolation while maintaining a lovely dose of wit and humour. There’s a cast of eleven, with many of us multi‑roling, and some exceptional movement sequences – no spoilers!
You play Mrs Khan and Mum in this production – how do these roles fit into the world of the story and its themes?
Mrs Khan is an integral part of Ahmet’s story. She is his class teacher and the first person he forms a connection with, the person he learns to trust in a world where he initially cannot communicate through language.
She empathises with Ahmet and becomes his protector and, I imagine, his confidante. She is definitely on his side.
Much of the piece is told through the eyes of Alexa, a girl in Ahmet’s class who wants to befriend him. I also play her mum, which is lovely, as they have their own separate story. Alexa and her mum have experienced a loss of their own, which explains why Alexa feels so drawn to Ahmet.
Both roles are incredibly nurturing in their own ways. It’s lovely to be the “adult voice” of the piece that steers the younger characters through Ahmet’s journey.
This is a stage adaptation of Onjali Q. Raúf’s much‑loved book. What do you think theatre can bring to this story that’s different from the page?
This book lends itself to the stage perfectly. These characters have such energy that it’s fab to watch them come to life.
There are some beautifully choreographed visual sequences that could only be created on stage, which will enhance anything your imagination conjured while reading the book. Besides, it’s always lovely to see a story you love in live action, isn’t it?
The production balances humour with serious themes around kindness and refugee experiences – what has it been like working within that tonal mix?
You have to embrace both. In any scenario there is light in the dark, and the humorous parts are essential without trivialising the sincerity of the piece.
This is a story that travels through loss, sadness, grief and isolation, not to mention bullying – these are difficult themes for any human, let alone children.
However, these themes are matched with strong notes of love, loyalty, friendship and, of course, football. Having witty moments gives the audience a moment of respite from the darker tones to regroup; it makes everything feel even more real. The balance is essential.
You’ve had a long and varied career across theatre, television and music. What keeps drawing you back to stories aimed at younger audiences and families?
That’s where it starts. This may be the first thing that many of these children will ever have seen in a theatre, and I think that is a magical thing to be a part of.
I also remember the real lack of representation when I was growing up; I never saw anyone like me on the stage. This production is a brilliant example of Britain today, across gender, race and character, and that makes me incredibly proud.
I love keeping my work varied, but every time I do something aimed at a family audience, I feel a responsibility. I love the immediate response of seeing young people be completely swept away by the stories we are telling.
What would you say to anyone thinking of booking to see The Boy at the Back of the Class?
Do it. This is such a heartwarming story with plenty of fun and a really clear and beautiful message. You will have the best time – we intend to!
The Boy at the Back of the Class plays at the Rose Theatre from 6–22 February followed by a UK tour.
