“Wonder Boy," a powerful play by Ross Willis and directed by Sally Cookson, centers on the journey of a young boy navigating the challenges of communication in a world that often struggles to understand him. This exploration of communication difficulties struck a personal chord for me; having experienced similar frustrations in my youth and now witnessing my two children face their own struggles with communication, I found the story’s sensitive portrayal profoundly moving.
Wonder Boy follows 12-year-old Sonny, a boy with a stammer who struggles to be understood in a world where communication is often a barrier. Living in the shadow of his speech impediment, Sonny retreats into his vivid imagination, where his comic book creation, Captain Chatter, provides him with an outlet for his unspoken thoughts. His world is further complicated when he's cast in a school production of Hamlet, which forces him to confront his fears of speaking in front of others.
Alongside his journey, Sonny forms a meaningful friendship with Roshi, a fellow student who shows him understanding and kindness. This relationship becomes crucial as Sonny learns to navigate the challenges of school and self-expression. His bond with Roshi and the support from his teacher, Wainwright, help him realise that he doesn't have to face his struggles alone. Through humour, emotional depth, and creativity, Wonder Boy explores the isolation and empowerment that come with finding one's voice.
Katie Sykes’s set design is a visual delight that brings Sonny’s vivid imagination to life. The stage is inspired by graphic novels, filled with bold colours and comic-style visuals that give it an episodic feel, reminiscent of a comic book in motion. LED “neon” frames and island platforms accentuate Sonny’s isolation, making moments of connection with others even more poignant. The costumes are vibrant and dynamic, capturing the heightened style of a comic while staying true to the characters’ personalities, blending realism and whimsy in perfect harmony. Tom Newell’s innovative captioning, part of the integrated set, adds depth, transforming the captions into an artistic narrative tool that enhances accessibility without feeling intrusive.
The cast delivers outstanding performances, with Hilson Agbangbe embodying Sonny’s vulnerability and fierce resilience. Ciaran O’Breen’s portrayal of Captain Chatter is memorable, using British Sign Language, movement, and expressive physicality to convey the strength Sonny wishes he had. Naia Elliott-Spence was a standout as Roshi, showcasing excellent comic timing. Her performance added a dynamic layer, bringing energy and warmth that helped anchor the story’s core themes. Eva Scott, as Sonny’s teacher Wainwright, brings a dry humour and warmth to her role, creating a nuanced character who sees beyond Sonny’s stammer to the bright mind underneath. Jessica Murrain shines in her dual roles as Sonny’s headteacher and mother, deftly navigating the balance between authority and care.
Wonder Boy is a powerful and heartwarming triumph that shines a light on the isolation and resilience tied to communication struggles. Willis’s heartfelt writing, brought to life by Cookson’s skilful direction, makes this production an immersive experience that connects across generations. As someone who has grappled with similar frustrations, both in my youth and now with my own children, I found the story’s portrayal deeply moving. It’s a vivid reminder of the importance of listening, understanding, and encouraging every voice to be heard. Wonder Boy is more than just a play—it’s an invitation into a young boy’s mind and a beautiful celebration of theatre’s power to express what words often can’t.
Wonder Boy is on at The Lowry until Saturday 16th November 2024, you can purchase tickets by clicking on the button below.
If you would like more information about the show click the button below for the show's official website.
Photo Credit - Steve Tanner
*Our tickets for this show were kindly gifted in exchange for an honest review.
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