Entertainment

The Kite Runner: Stage adaptation comes to Belfast

The much awaited stage adaptation of the bestselling novel by Khaled Hosseini arrives in Belfast next week, following a hugely successful run in the West End
The much awaited stage adaptation of the bestselling novel by Khaled Hosseini arrives in Belfast next week, following a hugely successful run in the West End The much awaited stage adaptation of the bestselling novel by Khaled Hosseini arrives in Belfast next week, following a hugely successful run in the West End

DIRECT from London’s West End and based on the best-selling novel by Khaled Hosseini, The Kite Runner is a haunting tale of friendship which spans cultures and continents, following one man’s journey to confront his past and find redemption.

Afghanistan is a divided country on the verge of war and two childhood friends are about to be torn apart. It’s a beautiful afternoon in Kabul and the skies are full of the excitement and joy of a kite flying tournament. But neither Hassan nor Amir can foresee the terrible incident which will shatter their lives forever.

Adapted by Matthew Spangler, The Kite Runner is directed by Giles Croft. He thinks it’s important to tell a story about Muslim culture with Muslim characters that aren’t demonised.

"They might be conflicted and some are better than others, but fundamentally it’s a human story and any story about forgiveness and redemption is worth telling whenever and wherever it’s set," says Croft.

"It’s something we need to be reminded of and it’s especially important to be reminded of what’s happening in Afghanistan and to portray it not simply as a war-torn nation but as a place with a complex, interesting history and a wonderful culture."

Croft strongly believes The Kite Runner is a story with universal resonance.

"It speaks to all people through the core themes of guilt, forgiveness and redemption. Those are things that we all have some connection with. It doesn’t matter who you are or where you are, it will speak to you."

:: The Kite Runner is at Belfast's Grand Opera House from June 18 to 23. Showtimes and online booking via Goh.co.uk