I don’t know about you, but every time we pass the Lighthouse in Poole, my children excitedly call out which performances they want to see based on the posers on the front of the building. We started going to the theatre when they were small; a family tradition of going to the pantomime at Christmas. From there, we began exploring other performances - dance shows, plays and puppet shows - each one offering something new to see. So imagine Tabby’s excitement when spring brought not one but TWO performances to see. Going to the Lighthouse has become a bit of a daddy/daughter thing in our house - Tabby and Oliver adore the time together and the shared experience. So off they went to see Awful Auntie in April, and then last night, they were lucky enough to attend the opening night of The Boy At The Back Of The Class. At 9, Tabby’s the perfect age for the show - although I know it appeals to all ages, there’s something about seeing kids your age and relating just that bit more. And at 9, Tabby’s also old enough to share her thoughts about the show, so I’m handing over to her as our junior journalist to tell you all about the performance.
Tabby's Review So, when me and daddy got there, I felt really excited because I love when we get to go to a show. It feels different from going to the cinema. I like thinking about how it’s real people we’re watching and that they’re somewhere in the same building getting ready. Daddy bought me some sweets and we went to our chairs. I felt really fidgety because I just wanted it to start!
When the show began I stared - on the stage the actors started with a big performance using a parachute to make tidal waves.
The performance was great and touching. I feel like before I watched the show, I didn't understand the topic as much, but after I understood it more. I didn’t know much about refugees and how they had to travel and live. I feel like I know a bit more now.
There were some sad bits, I knew that the story I was watching was also real life for some people. It made me feel emotional, and I cried a little bit. But it was funny too. I liked how it made me feel lots of feelings.
What I really liked was how the actors really thought about how children acted - even though they were grown-ups, you could forget about that and see them as children. I think everyone should go and see The Boy At The Back Of The Class. It’s got some lessons in it, but it’s not boring to watch!
Oliver's Review “Good morning year 5!” says the teacher to the class on stage, “I’m in year 5!” says Tabby, my excited 9-year-old daughter next to me. The children in the class are adult actors portraying kids, and they nail the mannerisms perfectly. From playtime interactions to speaking with their ‘parents’ Which is important because it’s a play for 9-year-olds. They take an incredibly complex and controversial topic and make it relatable, taking on the issue of asylum from a child’s perspective. The children in the play ask the questions that children ask and doesn’t pull any punches with its answers. Really well-written and incredibly simple in its production.
The performance was utterly wonderful and has led to some really poignant and important conversations at home. If you get the chance to see The Boy At The Back Of The Class, do it. It’s moving, funny and perfect for all the family! You can book tickets here.
Thank you to The Lighthouse, Poole for inviting us to see the performance, we can’t wait to come back!
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