Review: The Boy With Wings at The Birmingham Rep
Last night we headed to The Birmingham Rep to watch The Boy With Wings, running until 30 August, and what a treat it was! I went with my daughter Lily (age 8) and our friend with son Jack (age 7), and we all came away smiling, chatting, and even meowing…
The story begins with 12-year-old Tunde, a boy plagued by nightmares and raised to believe that almost everything in the world is unsafe. His Ma insists he stays indoors, playing computer games and snacking on junk food. Sounds like every child’s dream at first – but when that’s all you’re allowed to do, it’s a very different story.
Soon we discover the truth: Tunde is no ordinary boy. He’s the heir to a king from another planet, hidden on Earth until he comes of age. After a late-night parkour attempt goes wrong, he suddenly sprouts a huge pair of wings, and his adventure truly begins! Along the way there’s rapping, puppetry, space battles and even a furry feline friend to help him on his journey.
The show is adapted by Arvind Ethan David from Sir Lenny Henry’s hilarious book, and it’s every bit as imaginative and energetic as you’d hope.
One of the standout performances came from Jess Murrain as Juba the cat. She had the audience laughing from the start, meowing at us until children (and some adults!) meowed back — that was Jack’s favourite bit. With her cat-like movements, strong singing voice, and a clever gadget that translated her meows into rhyming, rapping English, she was brilliant to watch. But it wasn’t just her — the whole cast impressed us, each bringing great energy, character and rhythm. They all rapped with real skill, which made it even more fun for the children to follow and enjoy.
Adiel Boboye, playing Tunde, was also excellent; full of energy, emotion and charm. His bond with his friends and his Earth Ma felt real and heartfelt, adding depth to the intergalactic adventure. Lily’s favourite moment was the big reveal when Tunde finally spread his wings!
We all had moments that made us laugh: Lily giggled when the kids on stage declared that “all parents are crazy,” and I chuckled later when Tunde’s Ma, once relieved of her secret, switched from feeding him doritos and pop to water and nuts! The outer space journey to save not just one, but three worlds, was another favourite bit.
What also stood out was how the story touched on themes of family. It’s a great one for children in blended families, as Tunde struggles with his missing dad, discovers his alien heritage, and learns that while he has a biological mom and dad from another planet, his loving Earth Ma will always be there for him.
And the best sign of a good family show? Walking out of the theatre and hearing children happily singing the finale song all the way home.
Overall, The Boy With Wings is a fun, funny, and heartfelt adventure. With rapping cats, giant wings, and plenty of laughs for kids and grown-ups alike, it’s a brilliant family show to enjoy this summer.
