OBSERVER: The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time
Heidelberg Theatre Company’s production The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is sold out and it’s easy to see why.
Playing until May 10 in Rosanna, this superbly staged and acted interpretation treats audiences to a memorable theatre experience.
Adapted into a stage play by Simon Stephens from Mark Haddon’s 2003 mystery novel, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time tells of Christopher Boone, a highly intelligent and clever 15-year-old with autism spectrum disorder.
Christopher turns detective after finding his neighbour’s dog Wellington murdered, resulting in a challenging, life-changing journey.
Assisted by his primary teacher and mentor Siobhan, Christopher records his story in a journal, hoping it will become a play.
Indeed it has, thanks to Haddon’s imaginative narrative and Stephens’s creative stage adaptation. To present this play within a play at its best requires a first-class cast and production team. Under the direction of Karen Wakeham, Heidelberg Theatre Company’s show triumphs on all levels.
Freddy Collyer’s wonderful performance as Christopher demonstrates much dedicated time and research to achieve the required physicality and emotions. Bravo Freddy.
Articulate Amelia Halmarick is delightful as Christopher’s trusted mentor Siobhan. Cat Jardine delivers a strong performance as Christopher’s mother Judy, and Soren Jensen with his rich, sonorous voice, presents a sensitive, emotion-evoking portrayal of Christopher’s father, Ed.
Eight talented, versatile actors multi-role play as individual characters, a Greek Chorus expressing Christopher’s thoughts, then transforming into props, such as a ticket-machine.
Skilled, well-disciplined performances are presented by Mandy Murray, Keziah Gillam, John Cheshire, Sam Wyles, Morgan Thomas-Connor, Jackson Langelaan, Eva Parton and Christina Percival.
The revolving stage works brilliantly, particularly for Christopher’s eventful journey to London.
Lisa McVilly’s set/costume design is visually complemented by Deryk Hartwick’s awesome lighting, enhanced by John Rowe’s sound, and Mal Cother’s sign writing. David Cheshire’s original music is pleasingly atmospheric.
The excellent choreographic skills of Elise Moorhouse ensure there is never a dull moment onstage.
Congratulations to all.
htc.org.au
Review by Cheryl Threadgold