Bradford Writer's Olivier Win Comes Home

A significant theatrical achievement is set to grace the Alhambra theatre in Bradford, the hometown of its writer, Nick Ahad. His adaptation of "The Boy at the Back of the Class," a narrative centered on a Syrian child refugee, recently secured the prestigious Best Family Show award at the Olivier Awards.

This triumph marks Ahad's debut theatre production. He shared his profound emotional response upon learning the show would conclude its second UK tour at the Alhambra, a venue holding deep personal significance for him. Ahad described the upcoming performance as "magic."

The play's narrative follows a young boy from Syria who arrives at a UK school, befriended by classmates who help him search for his parents. Ahad highlighted the story's core message about the universal need for a home and a sense of belonging, a theme that deeply connected with him due to his own experiences navigating identity.

Previously, the show triumphed over "The Boy with Wings," "The Firework-Maker's Daughter," and "The Three Little Pigs" to claim the Olivier Award. The production, based on Onjali Q. Raúf's novel, is also directed by Monique Touko and produced by Children's Theatre Partnership and Rose Theatre. The Alhambra engagement runs until Saturday.