Review: PLANET OMAR, Unicorn Theatre

Photo credit: Robling Pix

Omar is fed up with changes, especially when it means the family have to move from Whitechapel to Harrow, where he won’t know anyone at his new school. The new house is nicer however, although the next door neighbour isn’t very friendly. Zanib Mian’s Planet Omar tells the story of this little boy and his adventures, as well as his growing understanding of his family, friendship and his religion and culture.

Omar’s family are Muslim and of Pakistani heritage. Both his parents are scientists and have got him interested in many aspects of learning. His older sister can be a nuisance however, as can his two year old brother Esa, played here by a puppet and quickly endearing himself to the audience. The play (adapted by Asif Khan) is based on the first book in the popular series, Planet Omar: Accidental Trouble Magnet. This is the book, originally called The Muslims, which introduced Omar and his family to young readers, and includes the story of Omar’s brush with a school bully and their eventual reconciliation after they get lost together on the Underground.

Sameena Hussain’s production, well-timed for Eid, is pacy, energetic and always on the move, as befits the central character. Nikki Charlesworth is responsible for set, costume and puppets: all exemplary, with everything from a giant pain au chocolat to the occasional appearance in Omar’s imagination of a friendly ginger dragon called H2O. Production values are high, and it’s a co-production between Leeds Playhouse, Birmingham Rep and the Unicorn.

At the press performance, the cast were reduced by one and understudy Zoe Iqbal took over as Mum, kindly, understanding and yet expecting the best from her children, in an assured performance. As Dad, and a cameo as the not so well-informed older cousin, Umar Butt, creates two convincing people. Justin Kendal-Sadiq as Omar, the only actor not playing multiple roles, engages the audience from his first appearance and manages to portray the essence of an eight year old. In addition to operating brother Esa, Izzy Coward is reliable best friend Charlie.

Two remarkable doubles complete the cast. As kindly if unconventional teacher Mrs Hutchinson and prejudiced neighbour Mrs Rodgers, Joanna Holden creates two totally different characters. Similarly, Emaan Durrani combines 13 year old footballer sister Maryam with school bully Daniel, a red hoodie being all that was needed to signal the arrival of the enemy – at least until the Underground adventure showed Daniel’s weaknesses.

All the cast play multiple roles and it is fascinating to watch the families in the audience getting more and more absorbed into the story, whether they already knew it or not. All would have learnt much along the way. Perhaps more importantly, Muslim families at this play will see themselves portrayed, accurately and with understanding, an important achievement and one for which theatre is the ideal medium.

Planet Omar is funny, captivating and educational – in the broadest sense – and deserves full houses in the comfortable (and blissfully air-conditioned) Weston auditorium of the Unicorn Theatre.

**** Four stars

Reviewed by: Chris Abbott

Planet Omar plays at London’s Unicorn Theatre until 7 June, with further info here.