WORLD PREMIERE: Bradford playwright Asif Khan brings beloved Planet Omar books to life in a vibrant new family theatre production
Step into the fantastically imaginative and delightfully chaotic world of 8-year-old Omar in a new children’s theatre production Planet Omar. Dynamic storytelling, playful visuals, and a heartwarming message are wrapped up in award-winning Bradford playwright Asif Khan’s new production, adapted for the stage from the beloved books by Zanib Mian and published by Hachette Children’s Group from whom Leeds Playhouse acquired the stage rights.
This world premiere by Leeds Playhouse, in association with the Unicorn Theatre and Birmingham Rep will open in the Courtyard Theatre at Leeds Playhouse from 7 – 25 April before transferring to the Unicorn Theatre and Birmingham Rep.
Asif Khan’s previous production, Sisters 360, which opened at Polka Theatre earlier this year before transferring to Leeds Playhouse for its Community Tour and playing as part of Bradford 2025, has been nominated for Best Stage Production at the 2025 Asian Media Awards. Planet Omar continues his work in inviting audiences of all ages to laugh, reflect, and cheer for heroes who dare to dream big, even when the odds are stacked against them.
Adapter Asif Khan said: “Zanib’s fabulous novel Planet Omar has made a connection with so many children. I’m thrilled and honoured to be bringing Omar and his world to life, and to the stage.”
Zanib Mian said: “Seeing Planet Omar leap from the page to the stage is such a joy. Omar’s world was always bursting with imagination, laughter and kindness, and I’m thrilled that children and families will now get to experience that energy in theatres. Stories that reflect all kinds of children matter – and I hope this show makes every young person watching feel seen and celebrated. I’m so grateful to Asif Khan and Sameena Hussain for bringing Omar’s world to life with such care, humour and heart.”
Directed by Sameena Hussain (Peanut Butter & Blueberries, Kiln Theatre, I Wanna Be Yours, Leeds Playhouse), this is a joyful, funny, and deeply moving story celebrating empathy, identity, and resilience.
Director Sameena Hussain said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be telling this story. Planet Omar centres the power of friendship and imagination, and it’s bursting with fun. I truly believe children are the best of us and we can learn so much from their honesty, creativity and resilience. Asif is a brilliant writer with an incredible ability to bring care and humour to important issues. This is a humanising story, and in these times, that feels more vital than ever.”
Leeds Playhouse Chief Executive Shawab Iqbal said: “Bringing Planet Omar to the stage at Leeds Playhouse is a proud moment for us. At a time when conversations about identity and belonging feel increasingly divided, it’s thrilling to commission new writing that places a young British Muslim boy and his family at the heart of the story. It’s vital that children and families see themselves reflected on stage, and that we celebrate the richness and diversity of the world around us. Sharing Omar’s story nationwide reminds us that every child’s voice matters, and that theatre can be a space where empathy, understanding, and imagination thrive.”
Planet Omar is perfect for families and school groups. This adaptation is a powerful reminder that imagination can be a superpower, and that friendship and understanding can change the world.
Find out more https://www.leedsplayhouse.org.uk/event/planet-omar/