‘This new interpretation honours the heart of the original story,’ say producersThe central character in one of the most popular plays of the century will be played by a woman for the first time in a new production coming to Leicester.Charlie Brooks and Joe McFadden play Chris’s parents (photo: Rich Lakos)The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time tells the story of Chris Boone. He is gifted with a brilliant mind for numbers, but is unsettled by the unpredictability of people and everyday life. When a neighbour’s dog is discovered killed, Chris comes under suspicion. Chris becomes both detective and suspect, drawn into a mystery that grows darker and more complex with every clue uncovered. What begins as the search for a culprit soon reveals secrets closer to home, forcing Chris to confront truths that will be a test of courage, independence and trust.The play, inspired by the multi-million-selling, internationally acclaimed novel by Mark Haddon, premiered at the National Theatre in 2012. It immediately received widespread acclaim for its groundbreaking theatrical design and emotional storytelling. It remains one of the most successful and acclaimed British plays of the 21st century and has been seen globally by more than five million people.Now, a new production is taking to the stage at the Curve – with a change in the lead role, as Chris will be played by a woman, Alex Keenan, a role alternated by Imi Price.The producers say the casting brings “a fresh perspective to one of contemporary theatre’s most iconic characters,” and that “this new interpretation honours the heart of the original story, inviting audiences to experience it through a new lens”.Keenan and Price join EastEnders favourite Charlie Brooks – best known for her long-running role as Janine Butcher in the soap – and Joe McFadden, known from the BBC’s The Crow Road and Holby City, ITV’s Heartbeat and as the winner of Strictly Come Dancing in 2017. Brooks and McFadden play Chris’s parents, Judy and Ed.The new production is produced by Birmingham Rep and theatre and film company Melting Pot, whose productions have won Oscars, Tony Awards, Baftas and Olivier Awards.The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time runs at the Curve from Tuesday October 20 to Saturday October 24.Continue Reading
Casting promises ‘fresh perspective’ on modern classic on Leicester stage
