The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time

The Alhambra

Brilliant! It's the only way to describe this stage version of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time.

Based on Mark Haddon's acclaimed award-winning novel, this adaption by Simon Stephens is simply spellbinding. It was the play they said could never be done but this National Theatre production graces the stage, will live long in the memory and deserves every plaudit it has so far received.

It brought the large first night Alhambra audience to their feet in enthusiastic appreciation for the entire project - and deservedly so.

It adapts the fictional memoirs of teenage Asperger Syndrome sufferer Christopher Boone who finds his neighbour's dog Wellington dead in her garden and it grips you from start to finish.

Joshua Jenkins as Christopher is simply fantastic. It's a virtuoso performance from this young actor who tackles a high energy exhausting part with great aplomb.

Everything about his playing is convincing, energetic and a fine test of memory as he delivers the tricky and often complicated lines which bring to life young Christopher whose struggles to cope with everyday life and family traumas are equally funny and poignant.

No praise is too high for Mr Jenkins.

The other principles playing Christopher's family and mentors, the versatile ensemble cast taking multiple roles are also deserving of high praise.

The staging is simply stunning with inventive lighting, sound and clever balletic movement.

Take a bow director Marianne Elliott, designer Binny Christie, lighting designer Paule Constable, video designer Finn Ros, sound designer Ian Dickinson and movement directors Scott Graham and Steven Hoggett.

There's one particular scene set in the London Underground which shows how the imagination can be stirred by sound, lights and movement- a true wonder of theatre.

'Curious Incident' is a set text for schools and this production bewitched the hordes of students which ensured the Alhambra was packed and humming.

But there were people of all ages there who lapped up every minute..

This is a theatrical achievement of great note - and no to be missed.

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