It’s quite a trip: Afghanistan in the mid-1970s through to the Soviet invasion, then an escape to the USA, with a later redemptive trip made back to Afghanistan post 9/11. The hefty task of making these transitions flow, and the equally challenging emotional passage are no problem for the strong cast of ten.

‘The Kite Runner’ (based on the book by Khaled Hosseini), directed by Giles Croft, centres on the close friendship of a Pashtun boy Amir (played by Ben Turner) and his Hazara servant Hassan (Farshid Rokey). Hassan is a Shia muslim, a minority sect that are openly discriminated against, and although the boys live and play together, their community works to make them feel their ethnic/social differences.

The tensions in their community give an insight into the tensions of a divided Afghanistan. We confront the heartbreak of war and love, and the after-effects of such traumas.

The kite flying scenes are beautiful – they are simply crafted with the whistle of the wind and the beat of a tabla played by the fantastic Hanif Khan. These elements create a magical yet ominous landscape.

The audience doesn’t have to work hard to appreciate the dominating poignant moments. We accept what we are fed – we root for the loyal Hassan, are in crisis with Amir, and despise the evil Assef (Nicholas Karimi). He scares the hell out of us with his stellar performance of a sociopath. Our anxious state is testament to their great, emotive performances.

The actors receive a standing ovation at the end of the night, and they thoroughly deserve it for their talents. They’ve certainly convinced us to jump on the bandwagon (a little late albeit) and purchase the book.

Theatre Royal, Tuesday 21st May 2013

Words by Nisha Bhakoo