Melting Pot and Birmingham Rep present The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time: a vibrant, celebratory portrayal of neurodiversity in teenage women.

Adapted from Mark Haddon’s seminal book of the same title, Simon Stephens’ stage production, directed by Ned Bennett, details the story of Chris Boone, a 15-year-old, neurodiverse girl, who is preparing for her A-level Maths when she discovers the grisly murder of her neighbour's dog, Wellington. Chris determinedly investigates the crime, along the way unravelling family secrets and proving that she can “do anything”.

Notably, this production changes book protagonist Christopher’s gender - the Rep's Artistic Director Joe Murphy champions the importance of this fresh change to the story in a programme note. The production truly highlights the experience of young, neurodiverse women, allowing their experiences to flourish, centre stage. Chris was last night expertly portrayed by Alex Keenan, who shines in her professional debut - Imi Price shares the role as alternate Chris.

Chris is likeable and endearing, but the production does not shy away from the realities of neurodiversity. Her 'moaning and groaning' is weaved into the soundscape. Harsh lighting and indiscernible loud sound signify overwhelming situations. Chris and her Father (Joe McFadden) and Mother (Charlie Brooks) - both excellent - express complicated familial relationships in striking freeze-frames of 'touch' and 'non-touch'.

The stagecraft and techniques of the performance are a true innovative standout. The talented ensemble - playing multiple roles throughout - work seamlessly with a beautiful mixture of physical theatre (devised by Jennifer Jackson), props (props by eve) and puppetry (designed by Matt Hutchinson). Technical elements tell the story hand-in-hand with traditional mediums. Video and sound complement each other effortlessly to create comedy and pathos throughout the show.

This production is a visual spectacle: hundreds of letters descend with little parachutes, a net and bouncy balls dramatically thud onto the stage as a faux tennis match. Cocooned in a starry projection, Chris dreams of becoming an astronaut in a spellbinding moment of stillness and vulnerability.

The staging itself is effective - designer Eleanor Bull hits the nail on the head. A white stage and walls demonstrate that we are 'watching a play' of Chris’ story unfold - hilariously, Chris often breaks out of a scene to direct her fellow characters. The two-level stage design is incredibly effective. In one notable, nail-biting moment it is used to symbolise tube tracks.

If the show itself wasn’t enough - after rapturous applause, Chris embarks on a glorious explosion of props and dramatic techniques to explain triumphantly a question from her A level paper, as previously suggested by her teacher, Siobhan (Bridgette Amofah, truly the glue of the piece). Finishing in a flurry of golden confetti and a defiant A* banner, this joyous and creative production is a must-see.   

Five Stars

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time was reviewed on Thursday 17 September by Rose Turner at The Rep, where it shows until Saturday 19 September