Wonder Boy
Ross Willis’s Wonder Boy is possibly one of the most inspiring pieces of theatre to have ever been on stage.
Directed by Sally Cookson with a small cast of just five actors, the story is compelling, touching and shows why theatre truly matters to a new generation of audiences. The language is relatable and current for a younger audience, I genuinely do not think that Shakespeare’s Hamlet has ever been described in a more relatable way!
The story follows twelve-year-old Sonny who lives with the struggle of a stammer as well as trying to navigate his way through life without his Mum. Sonny’s only friend is Captain Chatter, a comic book character he created. When Sonny is cast in a school production of Hamlet, he learns that maybe the real heroes are much closer than he thought.
The title role on the evening I visited was played by Samir Mahat, the understudy, who just simply sits into this character perfectly. His frustrations, his fear and his determination are greatly personified and a delight to watch as his journey evolves.
Naia Elliott-Spence as Roshi is a loveable and amusing character, brilliantly portrayed. As are Eva Scott as Wainwright, Jessica Murrain as Mum/Fish and Ciaran O’Breen as Captain Chatter who complete the cast.
The use of sign language between Captain Chatter and Sonny and the captioned dialogue within the set design make this production inclusive and open to all to follow and enjoy.
The content and portrayal are increasingly relevant and undoubtedly important for many people, young or old, to recognise and highlight that nothing is impossible, you just need that one person in your life to show you that anything is achievable once you put your mind to it.
This show was reviewed on the 3rd October 2024 at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre where the show runs until the 5th October 2024. Tickets available here: WONDER BOY | Wolverhampton Grand Theatre
Review written by Rachel Louise Martin
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Photo credit: Steve Tanner
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