The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time

Joshua Jenkins (Christopher Boone) - Curious Incident International Tour. Photo: Brinkhoff/Mögenburg.

Life takes on a new dimension of wonder in the National Theatre's production of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, now playing at the Princess of Wales Theatre as part of the 2017 Mirvish Season.

Tony Award winner Marianne Elliott (War Horse) directs this brilliant adaptation by playwright Simon Stephens, who brings Mark Haddon's internationally best-selling novel to life on stage with remarkable vision. 

The story follows the adventures of fifteen-year-old Christopher Boone (Joshua Jenkins), an extraordinary young man with an exceptional brain for math who struggles with an unnamed condition that closely resembles Asperger's syndrome or high-functioning autism. He has never ventured alone beyond his road, he has very specific dislikes, including the colours yellow and brown, and he detests being touched. When Christopher falls under suspicion for killing his neighbour's dog, he embarks on an investigation to identify the true culprit that leads him on a frightening journey well outside of his comfort zone.

Despite their efforts to protect him, Christopher's father Ed (David Michaels), mother Judy (Emma Beattie) and teacher Siobhan (Julie Hale) have limited control over his behaviour. Ultimately, he must learn to face some of life's challenges on his own, and the outcome is both devastating and inspiring.

Featuring incredible set design with intricate lighting and projections, The Curious Incident invites the audience inside of Christopher's head where we see and feel what he is going through in a most striking manner. When he is overwhelmed, sounds, voices, lights and scenes intensify, resulting in a disorientating sensation for the viewer. This technique helps us emphathize with Christopher's anxieties. We begin to relate to his need for consistency and security amid surrounding chaos.

Both Michaels and Beattie give strong performances as Christopher's emotionally frustrated parents, and Hale is particularly strong as his dedicated friend and educator. However, Jenkins truly carries the performance as the lead, bringing infectious energy, innocence and a straightforward matter-of-factness to the challenging role of Christopher.

Don't miss this unique theatrical experience (and be sure to stay after curtain call for a fun surprise). The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time runs until November 19, 2017 at the Princess of Wales Theatre. Visit mirvish.com for more information and to buy tickets.