Now at Birmingham Rep, this adaptation of the popular murder mystery is captivating, emotional and hugely enjoyable
Alex Keenan (Chris Boone)(Image: Johan Persson)
The Curious Incident of the Dog in The Night-Time throws the audience straight into the midst of an intriguing and slightly surreal murder mystery.
Wellington, a dog belonging to the neighbour of our main protagonist, has been killed, impaled with a pitchfork.
Neurodivergent teenager and math genius Chris Boone, played by the brilliant Alex Keenan and alternatively Imi Price, comes under suspicion almost immediately and soon sets out to solve the mystery herself.
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But her quest ends up uncovering difficult truths closer to home as the story morphs into a funny, moving and ultimately uplifting coming-of-age tale.
Curious Incident is a much-loved novel and has been adapted for the stage several times before – an impressive fact perhaps given much of the story relies on seeing into the main character’s inner psychological world.
This production at Birmingham Rep makes clever use of lighting, props and screens to achieve this and manages to keep on surprising the audience through its creativity despite the minimal set design.
While it may not be as extravagant as other theatre adaptions, there are still a number of inventive moments which are genuinely impressive and captivating – a scene set in the London Underground is one of many which come to mind.
But it was Alex Keenan’s performance as Chris, who has been gender swapped for this production, which really brought the character and her inner turmoil to life.
The Curious Incident of the Dog in The Night-Time has arrived at Birmingham Rep(Image: Johan Persson)
Former EastEnders actress Charlie Brooks and Joe McFadden are great at playing our hero’s complex and messy parents who at times make flawed decisions.
But with story being entirely told through Chris’ perspective, Alex Keenan has to portray her character’s emotional rollercoaster with the humour, charm and anguish that requires – and she didn’t put a foot wrong.
The smart and innovative production, alongside some stellar performances, all culminate then in a character arc that feels real and is hugely satisfying.
Fans of the novel will likely enjoy this fresh and imaginative adaptation while those new to the story will find themselves drawn into the various twists and turns, as well as the play’s heartfelt message.
The Curious Incident of the Dog in The Night-Time is on at Birmingham Rep until Saturday, September 19.
You can buy tickets on the Birmingham Rep website here.
