REVIEW: The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time

September 11, 2024

 

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time
Presented by Belvoir St Theatre
Reviewed by Alexandro Gould-Arocha

The Curious Incident of a Dog in The Night-Time follows the story of 15-year-old Christopher after he discovers his neighbour’s dog Wellington dead in their front yard. After a run-in with police, he decides to make it his mission to find out the culprit.  

This production is a welcome departure from previous productions of the play which relied heavily on projections and lighting design to convey the story. Hannah Goodwin reimagines the production that is more authentic. With simpler designs, including a split-flap display which doubles as a warning system for potentially overstimulating lights/sounds and to set place and time. The team approached it with "neurodivergent-affirming dramaturgy" as stated by Goodwin and thus the story is conveyed realistically to make the emotional moments hit right to the core.  

 

 

Originally, I was disappointed that there wouldn't be the effects or physical theatre that I had seen from trailers of other productions of the show, but the creative team delivered an excellent production throughout this reimagining. I do feel, however, that the production could’ve been elevated even further by borrowing from some of the physical theatre techniques used in key scenes. One curious and fascinating feature of this new production was the musicalification of the Maths Appendix, which was such a joy to experience. 

Part of the production's commitment to inclusion included a series of support documents for people with sensory sensitivities. These included a timetable of loud sounds, bright lights, and emotional triggers, as well as a visual story and a sensory guide. 

Autistic performer Daniel R. Nixon astounds as Christopher, bringing an authentic portrayal of the character to life. His comedic timing is incredible, and Nixon creates a version of this character that the audience really sympathise with. Unlike in the original 2003 novel by Mark Haddon which was uncritical of the characters in Christopher’s life. 

 

 

Matilda Ridgway plays Judy, Christopher’s mother, and Brandon McClelland plays Ed, his father. Ridway’s portrayal is nuanced and captivating, her character is impatient and unlikeable at times but still deeply loving for her son. I found her story so compelling and interesting. McClelland’s portrayal is authentic, and the character is devoted and patient with Christopher but with moments of weakness that the audience can sympathise with.  

Brigid Zengeni plays Siobhan, Christopher’s caring teacher. Siobhan serves as a narrator in some scenes and is a supportive figure in Christopher’s life. 

 

 

Rounding out the cast included Nicholas Brown as Mr Shears, Roy Joseph as the Policeman, Tracy Mann as Mrs Alexander, and Ariadne Sgouros as Mrs Shears. These performers also play various other roles throughout the show. The ensemble was strong and supported the story effectively. They watched during scenes in a way that added to the show and their characters. One particular choice I loved was how they utilised the warning system gestures- hands over eyes for bright lights and over ears for loud sounds- to add to the emotionality and authenticity of scenes. 

The Curious Incident of a Dog in the Night-Time is not to be missed. The stellar cast, effective design and grappling story is simply astounding and will leave you wanting to see it again. 

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The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is playing at Belvoir St Theatre until 22 September 2024. Tickets can be purchased here.

Production images by Brett Boardman