Review: The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime

I was very reminiscent of this play, especially as the father Ed Boone was played by the same actor I saw back in 2017 - Tom Peters. Starting with Peters, I was impressed to remember the exact actor; however, his performance is unforgettable as proven by my memory of him. Ed Boone is a very powerful character within the play and a big part of Christopher's life. Within this production, during the second act, Peters stood an arms width away from me (I sat in the aisle seats of the grand circle) and I was in absolute awe of this convincing performance.

Peters bounced off of, stage son, David Breeds (Christopher) as though they were actually father and son! The chemistry was undeniable. Aside from Peters, Breeds was a phenomenal actor as he played the perfect Christopher I envisioned. Still classed as a "newbie" to the theatrical stage, he was everything I could have hoped for. He did not shy away, break character or anything else an actor wishes to avoid.

As the two main characters of the play, you could not have asked for a better duo. You could also not have wished for a better ensemble of actors throughout the play - the inclusion of actors was incredible. Transgender actress Rebecca Root (who can be seen in Sex Education and The Danish Girl) performed as Siobhan whilst deaf actress Sophie Stone (Casualty, Holby City and The Crown) played Judy.

It was a special night to witness the inclusion that the casting directors brought to the stage, especially as Stone occasionally uses sign language. I believe this was one of the most diverse castings I have ever seen on a stage and to say I loved it would be an understatement. It is the representation everyone wants!

Moving away from the acting, the stage itself was (literally) electrifying. The effects that were used; such as lights to highlight maps, paths, drawings and Christopher's mind were illuminating. I have not personally seen many productions use these effects - it is very individual to the play's production and is amazing to witness.

Having been obsessed with the novel and play for years, I took my boyfriend to watch the play. He did not know the plot or what to expect - he just saw me getting more and more excited as the night went on. It is easy to say that he did not expect the dark topics that the play indulges in; however, he thought it was "interesting" and "impressive".

I could not take my eyes off of the stage - not for a drink, food, nothing. It hooked me from the beginning! I cannot fault this production on and off stage. It was the highlight of my last COVID-19 years (which I have actually seen two or three productions during)! I encourage you all to try and see this production as it tours the UK.