Ross Willis’ Wonder Boy is a heartwarming and inventive play that explores the struggles of Sonny, a young boy overwhelmed by a stammer that leaves him unable to express himself. Hilson Agbangbe’s portrayal of Sonny is deeply moving, capturing the frustration and vulnerability of a boy navigating school life and emotional isolation. Eva Scott’s hilariously blunt teacher, Wainwright, becomes his lifeline, providing support and belief when others, like his neglectful headteacher, fail him.
Directed by Sally Cookson, the production blends humour and heartache with dazzling visuals, including Sonny’s comic book world, where Captain Chatter (Ciaran O’Breen) helps him cope. The inventive use of on-stage captions, bold costume design, and Benji Power’s cinematic score ensures accessibility for all audiences. Willis’ script is refreshingly authentic, filled with the kind of raw language and humour that resonates with both young and old.
Despite a few moments of slow pacing, Wonder Boy is an inspiring story of self-acceptance, offering a powerful message about finding one’s voice. It’s a joyful, emotionally charged piece of theatre that fully deserves its 2023 Writers’ Guild Award for Best Play.
Photo Credit: Steve Tanner
The Broken Spine invites submissions for Rites & Trials: Coming-of-Age Poetry, the latest addition to our acclaimed slimline anthology series. Following After
Si Griffiths’ debut pamphlet, Debone & Fold, doesn’t just describe labour, it makes you feel it. The poems are visceral, steeped in
At The Broken Spine, collaboration and community have always been at the heart of what we do. We believe in uplifting fellow
The Broken Spine is a poetry and arts collective proudly published on the coastal edge of North-West England. Founded in 2019 by Alan Parry and Paul Robert Mullen – two school friends reunited after twenty years through a mutual love of poetry.
