FEDRAT SADAT talks his journey to The Boy At The Back Of The Class

Interviewer – Pat Hayward – 5th March

With the news that the production of the hit drama The Boy At The Back Of The Class, currently on a UK tour, has been nominated for an Olivier Award in the “Best Family Show” category, Overture’s Pat Hayward talks to Fedrat Sadat about his journey from Afghanistan to the British stage ahead of his appearance in The Boy At The Back Of The Class at Southampton at Mayflower Studios from 10^th to 14^th March 2026.

PH: Fedrat, you are currently touring in The Boy At The Back Of The Class – could you give us some idea of what the play is about and your part in the story?

FS: Of course I can. The play is about a boy who joins in a class of year 5 and a group of friends who try to befriend him and understand him. The boy is a refugee and it shows that the struggle of a refugee is not over once they arrive in the UK. I play a magical and wise old shopkeeper that gifts the main protagonist a magical pomegranate, as well as other little roles such as a policeman and reporter.

PH: Is there a particular character in the play that you can identify with more than any of others?

FS: I identify most with Ahmet, the new boy at the back of the class. I came to this country from Afghanistan when I was 7. I understand how tough it is to enter a new world as a child. This story is very much about me. Although I had it much better than Ahmet, if I’m honest.

PH: When did you first have ideas about performing?

FS: When I was very young. As young as I can remember. In Kabul, I loved entertaining people and I love how life brought me over to give me the opportunity to do it to many more people.

PH: Could you tell us about your journey to becoming an actor?

FS: I would love to but I really have no idea how this has happened. I didn’t come from an acting background with an acting Family. I had no idea what I was doing then and I have no idea what I’m doing now. All I know is that I am doing and I will try to keep doing.

PH: How difficult has it been getting roles on the stage?

FS: How difficult has it been getting roles anywhere?! I think it’s so tough for performers on every side. Nowadays it’s tough to get a normal job so I can’t really complain too much. It has not been easy. I have auditioned countless times but I am very grateful and I try not complain.

PH: You are now heading back to the South Coast just a few miles from where you spent your Uni days in Portsmouth. Have you many memories of the area and will this be your first visit to Southampton?

FS: I can not wait to get there. A blast from the past. My Ex lived in Southampton while I went to uni in Portsmouth. I am very used to Southampton and I hope Southampton love the show! I know I’ll love it there. It is a very nice place to be.

PH: Many thanks for your time today Fedrat, I’m certainly looking forward to seeing you and The Boy At The Back Of The Class in Southampton from 10^th March.