THE NATIONAL Theatre’s hit play, based on Mark Haddon’s celebrated novel, has transferred from the South Bank to the West End (where it is still playing after two years) and opened it’s UK tour at The Lowry almost one year ago. It has now returned to Salford to bow out, but given the standing ovation on the night, it won't be long until this innovative, ferociously funny and deeply moving tale of an outsider called Christopher Boone (played by the wonderful Joshua Jenkins) is back to delight once more.
If you stay behind at the end, he comes back and shows you how he solves Pythagoras’ Theorem
Christopher is a mathematics genius who lives with his dad in Swindon. His life is ordered and tailored for his liking thanks to his loyal father and his caring teacher, Siobhan. Looking after this engaging boy is no easy task. He has Asperger’s, and though he receives understanding and patience from those close to him, whenever he steps outside of his front door the potential for chaos and public bewilderment ensue.
The play opens with a striking image which readers of Haddon’s excellent book will remember well; a dog lying dead with a garden fork sticking out of it. Our protagonist turns all Jonny Lee Miller from Elementary as he begins a quest to find Wellington's killer.
This clever device and the many clues that Christopher uncovers act as a smokescreen, as the play is never really a mystery involving the death of Scooby Doo. This young boy discovers far more than the answers to the questions he is seeking. As does the audience, as Haddon’s original book is written from the protagonist’s perspective, so you climb into the mind of a boy with Asperger’s and see things from his point of view. Simon Stephens has managed to adapt this brilliant book with so much pace and magical moments that it never feels episodic or slavish.
The Curious Incident Of The Dog In The Night-TimeThe set is simple, yet a box of delights, as each cube stacked around the outside of the stage represents a menagerie of wonderful sights, including: a fish tank, suitcases, a school desk and a busy tube train. Marianne Elliott’s direction is flawless, as you find yourself moved, immersed and at times flawed by the sheer wonderment emanating from the stage.
Jenkins is excellent as Christopher, as he brings comedy and stoic sense of logic to the part. Geraldine Alexander is a great narrator and the patience and understanding that she conveys as Siobhan transcends to the audience.
Stuart Laing has a difficult task as Christopher’s dad, Ed. This man is lost, frustrated, yet keeps everything close to his chest. Yet Laing conveys his undying love for his son with ease.
Scott Graham and Steven Hoggett’s movement is as dazzling as the play itself. Christopher loves maths and if you stay behind at the end, he comes back and shows you how he solves Pythagoras’ Theorem.
I'm no maths buff, but I do know that a Groundbreaking Novel + Triumphant Production = a stunning night out at the theatre.
Curious is on at the Lowry until 21 November. Tickets here
