There's something very uniquely British about laughing while there's a crisis, and Wonder Boy embodies just that. 

The play - about a 12-year-old boy with a stammer - is funny, devastating, truthful and inspiring all at the same time. 

After a successful stint at the Old Vic in Bristol, Wonder Boy is now touring the UK and is currently at the MAST in Southampton.

The staging is sparse and modern, the actors play out the school tale with a few chairs, one desk and a door. The use of dynamic graphics and vivid lighting is magical, it was incredible to watch.

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Words are Sonny's biggest fearWords are Sonny's biggest fear (Image: Steve Tanner) We follow Sonny, a vulnerable year 8 boy who is struggling to speak words fluently, something most of us take for granted. For Sonny small take about the weather is his worst enemy, even saying his own name is a battle. 

On his first day in school, he is sent to see Wainright, a Star Wars-loving deputy head teacher, brilliantly portrayed by Eva Scott, who has an abundance of time to listen to Sonny speak.

But while Wainwright uses patience and encouragement to help Sonny gain confidence, head teacher Fish wants results and signs Sonny up for a part in Hamlet. Even Sonny's imaginary friend, Captain Chatter, a comic book hero of his own creation, can't save him from The Bard.

In a world of quick wins and instant gratification, it's refreshing to see Sonny persevere with his lines - even after a few mighty setbacks. 

Wonder Boy is Hilson Agbangbe's professional debut in theatre. The LAMDA graduate had the complete attention of the audience, we were all rooting for his Sonny - he made us laugh and cry in equal measure. 

The language in Wonder Boy is just pure magic, the quick back-forths, silly lines and tender moments are what make the play so special. An added beauty was the creative graphics which subtitle the whole production. 

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Captain Chatter can't even save Sonny from The BardCaptain Chatter can't even save Sonny from The Bard (Image: Steve Tanner)

It might be easy to think going into Wonder Boy that the main aim is for Sonny to overcome his stammer, but the true inspiration of the play is the fact the schoolboy embraces his difficulties. Stammering isn't something to be ashamed of. 

Wonder Boy is, of course, aimed at secondary school groups, but there's something for adults to learn here too. You'll find yourselves crying, and then laughing again a few minutes later. Don't miss out. 

Wonder Boy is on at MAST in Southampton until Saturday, November 9. More information can be found at mayflower.org.uk/whats-on/wonder-boy-2024/ or you can call 02380 711811