Southampton Mayflower – until 29th January 2022
Reviewed by Lucy Hitchcock
5*****
It isn’t often that one gets to watch a stage adaptation of their favourite book, but even if you haven’t read the original from Mark Haddon, this is a work of art.
We follow Connor Curren as Christopher Boone, our protagonist, whilst he navigates through the curious incident of the dog in the nighttime. Curren is superb in this role and he has such an emotive performance that reduced me to tears by the end of the show. From the start, Curren commands the stage with such grace and never leaves the stage except for the interval. This is a vastly physically demanding role and Curren really excels. Together with his Tom Peters, as his father, this is a great casting. The emotion and rapport between the two was great, giving us a truly immersive performance. Words can’t describe how brilliant this cast is and how the staging and direction from Simon Stephens and Marianna Elliott dive you deep into the world of a young person with autism. With a sensory overload during the show and flashing lights and smoke, you start to understand how the world is overwhelming for a young person with needs.
A huge mention needs to go to both Rebecca Root and Sophie Stone as Siobhan and Christophers mum. Both of these actors were captivating, with Siobhan being the support for Christopher and popping up in the audience, she really brought us in and glided through the piece. Sophie Stone as Christophers mum was brilliant, giving such empathy and support to Curren as his character had overloads through the show and broke down.
This is a sterling piece with such an incredible cast, one that you will never forget. I urge you to see this stupendous show and experience the wonders of the world through an autistic persons eyes