On a Saturday afternoon at the end of June, I took my eight-year-old son Wilfred to see The Boy With Wings at Polka Theatre. It’s rare to find a theatre performance aimed at this age – many kids’ shows feel too childish for an eight-year old, while others are more suited for teenagers and adults.
But this show, recommended for children aged 7-12, hit the spot, feeling both grown-up (I enjoyed it too!) and with an upbeat energy and humour – not to mention puppetry, parkour and rap – that mesmerised my son.
It was the stage premiere of Sir Lenny Henry’s children’s book, co-produced with Birmingham Rep, and adapted by Arvind Ethan David. It follows the story of Tunde (Adiel Boboye), a seemingly ordinary boy who suddenly sprouts wings and finds out he’s part-alien – the son of a powerful intergalactic warrior, no less. No big deal. Just the small matter of saving the galaxy on top of dealing with school, bullies and a bit of homework.
Directed by Daniel Bailey, the play kicks off with Tunde struggling to sleep, tormented by surreal night terrors featuring birds (brought to life with some clever puppetry). Things quickly get stranger when a talking cat appears. Juba the Cat Queen (played by Jessica Murrain) – who becomes one of the real stars of the show – explains that Tunde has a special destiny. He’s being raised on Earth as part of a secret plan – and he’s going to grow wings. Cue gasps of delight from the younger audience members, Wilfred included.
The character of Tunde is instantly likeable – a bit awkward, warm-hearted and full of curiosity. He sings a little, and he enjoys hanging out with his two best friends, one of whom is in a wheelchair. There’s no heavy-handedness here: the show is inclusive and representative in a natural, joyful way. We learn that Tunde has been bullied in the past, which adds an extra emotional layer to his transformation into a hero. He’s now 12, and suddenly has a huge responsibility – but he’s not facing it alone.
The play makes room for some gorgeous, poetic monologues (delivered by Juba, who speaks almost entirely in iambic pentameter throughout), and moments of real humour. Mia Jerome puts in a solid performance as Tunde’s mum, Ruth, delivering convincing normality that makes the absurdity of the situation even funnier. When she insists her son stay indoors eating Doritos and playing video games because “outside is dangerous”, there was a big laugh from the adults, though plenty of the jokes landed for the kids, too. And a real highlight for us both was the brilliant ‘So sorry, puddy cat”’ rap.
The set is simple but effective, with great use of lighting and movement to conjure up everything from bedrooms to alien planets. When Tunde’s long-absent father appears near the end, complete with dazzling, colourful wings, the audience burst into cheers.
The play finishes with the cast coming together for a final number – the titular Boy With Wings song. The characters sing and rap their hearts out in an infectiously upbeat routine. Wilfred was beaming, and honestly, so was I.
At just under 90 minutes including the interval, it’s the perfect length for primary-age children. The show manages to juggle action, sci-fi silliness, heartfelt emotion and some brilliant musical moments without feeling overloaded. Definitely one to add to the list for the summer holidays.
The Boy with Wings is aimed at ages 7-12 and runs until Saturday 16th August. Polka Theatre, 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, London SW19 1SB. For more information, and for bookings, please visit www.polkatheatre.com.
