Regular readers will remember that I loved the play The Curious Incident of The Dog In The Night-Time when my family went to see it playing on London’s West End. It was modern, relevant and had won a swag of awards so it was a great pick to suit all ages. Fast forward to 2018 and we are now seeing this much lauded play touring Australia. Brisbane theatre goers are in for a treat when this acclaimed play starring an all-British and Irish cast settles in for a run at the newly renovated Concert Hall, QPAC this June.
The Story
I was first introduced to Mark Haddon’s story by my boys who’d read the book at school. As a teacher I’d taught many children with special needs and I have a special interest in children on the autism spectrum as I believe many of these children will become the scientists, engineers and techies of the future, if we educate and channel their interests properly.
My sons loved the story for its premise, mystery and quirkiness. The book and play tells the story of Christopher John Francis Boone. He stands beside Mrs Shears dead dog, which has been speared with a garden fork. It is seven minutes after midnight and Christopher is under suspicion. He meticulously records each fact in a book he is writing on the mystery of who killed Wellington the dog.
Christopher has an extraordinary brain, is exceptional at maths, while ill–equipped to interpret everyday life. He has never ventured alone beyond the end of his road, he detests being touched and he distrusts strangers. Through his detective work, forbidden by his father, Christopher is taken on a frightening journey which upturns his whole world. This unique story has been adapted for the stage by Olivier award-winning playwright Simon Stephens.
The Play
This extraordinary play is the recipient of a record–breaking seven 2013 Olivier Awards including Best New Play, Best Director, Best Design, Best Lighting Design and Best Sound Design. After its stellar run in London The Curious Incident Of The Dog In The Night-Time was transferred to Broadway, where it won five Tony Awards and was one of the longest running plays in over a decade. It is a masterpiece of storytelling with very modern lighting, music and videos blended expertly to tell this beautiful story of family love and bravery in the most unlikely of environments.
The Cast
The lead role of Christopher is played by Joshua Jenkins who played the role in the first U.K. Tour. He is ably assisted by Julie Hale as Siobhan, Stuart Laing as Ed and Emma Beattie as Judy. The ensemble cast includes Bruce McGregor (Reverend Peters) Amanda Posener (Mrs Shears) Danielle Kassarate (Punk Girl) Debra Michaels (Mrs Alexander) and Matt Wilman (Mr Thompson).
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is a wonderful story which many of you will be familiar with, as Mark Haddon’s novel has sold 5.5 million copies worldwide. It is a modern-day play for adults and teenagers alike. School groups should make the time to see this powerful, yet gentle play. It is a play that just works on every level, it is life affirming, uplifting and a genuine crowd pleaser which has already proven itself the world over. The Curious Incident Of The Dog In The Night-Time will be playing at QPAC from 12 June. A must see in my books!
Purchase tickets here.
Michelle Beesley is a Brisbane born and bred former primary school teacher. A wife, proud grandma and mother of three grown sons, Michelle is thrilled to have recently published her debut contemporary romance novel, It Happened in Paris, with Serenade Publishing. Her novella – Escape to D’ Amour was published in 2019. Michelle’s work can be found in the anthologies – Destination Romance and Short & Sweet. When not reading or writing Michelle can be found at a coffee shop chatting with friends, front row at a fashion show, or beside a rugby union field cheering on her favourite teams.
Michelle is a reluctant traveller, Francophile, keen walker and avid yoga enthusiast plus a book, film and theatre lover who loves everything pink and sparkly (including champagne). You can find Michelle on instagram @michellebeesley_writer and her website: michellebeesley.com.
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