Planet Omar: A Stunning Production, Perfect for Your Own Little Trouble Makers.
Last night we had the absolute pleasure of watching the Leeds Playhouse’s own production of Planet Omar: Accidental Trouble Maker.
My kids have seen plenty of pantos and comedies over the years, but none have made them laugh out loud quite like this show, without relying on any audience participation or pop song covers. It also has the added bonus of being genuinely hilarious for parents, perfectly capturing the chaos and joy of raising young children.
Adapted for the stage by Asif Khan and Sameena Hussain, the story follows Omar, a hyperactive and utterly lovable eight-year-old Muslim boy with a habit of finding himself near trouble. With his scientist parents, football-mad older sister, and particularly adorable toddler brother, Omar’s world is already full of life. But when his mum gets a new job, the family relocates, and Omar must navigate the challenges of starting a new school. In an area with less cultural diversity, those challenges feel even greater, but the story is ultimately one of resilience, positivity and the strength of family.
The standout performance comes from Justin Kendal-Sadiq, who brings incredible charm and believability to the role of Omar. His rapid-fire delivery, physicality and seemingly endless energy felt uncannily like watching my own son on stage. From his love of pain au chocolat (also, bizarrely, my son’s favourite) to the brilliantly funny handshake routines with his friends, every detail adds to a performance that completely captivates the audience.
Everything about this production feels thoughtfully crafted and works seamlessly together. Transitions are slick, accompanied by catchy music that keeps the pace and energy high. The script is sharp and witty, retaining the spirit of the original books while translating beautifully to the stage. Whether you’re familiar with the series or not, the story is easy to follow, with universal themes of friendship and belonging that resonate with all ages. The set and lighting are bright, colourful and deceptively simple, allowing for inventive staging and smooth scene changes that keep younger audiences engaged throughout.
The ensemble consisting of Umar Butt, Izzy Coward, Emaan Durrani, Joanna Holden and Aizah Khan are all fantastic, multi-roling with such clarity and skill that younger viewers won’t even clock they’re playing multiple characters. My son’s favourite (aside from Omar, of course) was his best friend Charlie, played by Izzy Coward, whose curiosity and instant kindness made him utterly endearing. My daughter loved the contrast between the comically over-the-top school bully Daniel and Omar’s older sister Maryam, both brilliantly portrayed by Emaan Durrani. For me, the puppetry was a real highlight. The toddler brother and Omar’s imaginary dragon were beautifully realised and added both humour and heart, particularly in moments when Omar needed comfort. There’s a moment with his brother in the mosque that had us all in hysterics, not just for the comedy but for how utterly relatable it was for a parent.
While this is undoubtedly a children’s show, it carries a powerful and important message about respect and understanding different cultures without judgement. I personally loved gaining insight into everyday aspects of Muslim family life that I hadn’t experienced before, and it was even more special seeing my children engage with it in such a joyful and positive way.
I often recommend pantos and family shows, but this truly offers something different. My son has declared it the best show he’s ever seen, and that’s from a boy who watches around twelve a year, so high praise indeed. Honestly, I’d go even further: it’s one of the best children’s shows I’ve ever seen, too. Perfect for ages 6–12, but genuinely enjoyable for older children and adults alike. Book your tickets now…your children will very much thank you for it.
Photography by Robling Pix. Main image: Izzy Coward as Charlie, Emaan Durrani as Daniel, Justin Kendal Sadiq as Omar, Aizah Khan as Mum, Umar Butt as Dad and Joanna Holden as Mrs Rodgers.
Listings information
A production by Leeds Playhouse, in association with the Unicorn Theatre and Birmingham Rep.
Planet Omar Based on the book by Zanib Mian Adapted by Asif Khan
Age guide 7+Leeds Playhouse
7 – 25 April
ACCESS PERFORMANCES
Leeds Playhouse
Audio Described + Touch Tour: Wed 22 Apr, 1pm; Thu 23 Apr, 6pm
BSL interpreted: Fri 10 Apr, 6pm; Sat 18 Apr, 1.30pm
Captioned: Sat 18 Apr, 1.30pm; Tue 21 Apr, 6pm
Access productions at Leeds Playhouse are sponsored by Principal and Access Partner Irwin Mitchell
Throughout the run of Planet Omar at Leeds Playhouse, there will be prayer spaces available pre-and post-show, as well as a dedicated non-alcoholic bar with family-friendly drinks and snacks.
