Returning to The Lowry after a UK tour last year was the stage adaptation of Mark Haddon’s 2003 smash-hit novel The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time.
After hearing so many good things about this run my expectations were sky high: but every single one was fulfilled, and then some.
Central character 15-year-old Christopher Boone has Asperger’s Syndrome, seeing things differently from most he struggles with everyday tasks that we would take for granted.
His Neighbour Mrs Shears owns a Poodle, Wellington, who unfortunately is killed under suspicious circumstances.
All fingers point at the oddball Christopher, so he decides to lead an investigation into what really happened, leaving his father and heading off on a journey to find the truth.
The show converts well from book to stage, and under the skillful direction of Marianne Elliott, captures the essence of the novel impressively.
The digitally enhanced stage, incredible lighting, superb projection and extremely talented ensemble make this original, imaginative play unforgettable.
The train/tube scene is especially well done but there are plenty more ‘Wow’ moments throughout.
Joshua Jenkins as Christoper is amazing in the lead role, playing a difficult position with conviction and sensitivity. How he remembers all those numbers and sequences is beyond me.
I personally came away with a better understanding of the struggles that people with Asperger’s may face after seeing his performance.
Myself and my 13-year-old granddaughter were totally absorbed, laughing, crying and perched on the edge of our seats as we followed his quest for answers.
The play flows well with a small group of very talented actors playing all characters switching with ease in front of the audience. The music is a added bonus and enhances the already magnificent production.
Stuart Lang, playing Christoper’s Dad, brings a lovely, heartwarming edge to the character while Geraldine Alexander as Siobhan, Christopher’s teacher and friend, narrates well to add a calmness to cut through the mayhem of the story.
I would recommend this play as suitable for teenagers upwards as there is some strong language involved and a fair bit of concentration required to delve into Christopher’s mindset.
Myself and my granddaughter have both read the book but I spoke to a couple in the interval who had not and were enjoying the play anyway, and in my opinion it doesn’t matter either way.
A quick tip – don’t leave when the house lights come on as there is one more surprise in store!
We left exhilarated and inspired having had the most amazing evening.
Take a trip into Christopher’s world – it will change the way you look at yours!
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time runs at The Lowry until Saturday 21 November. Book tickets at The Lowry Box Office online or call 08432086000.
