Simon Stephens’s The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time,based on a book by Mark Haddon, is a performance-art piece, a play that explores the world of an autistic boy (played by the physically flexible Alex Sharp) who speaks in announcements with crisp consonants, and reacts to the imaginative trips provoked by the world around him. It’s odd, brilliant, stylized, with lots narrated by his teacher and his mother. It’s also a light show, designed by Paule Constable, with active patterns that actually become a description of inner state. Objects are deftly handled in Mime; props are imaginary. Sound effects designed by Ian Dickenson jump in as part of the amazing visual spectacle.
All members of the large cast are strong and convincing as they play many parts. Scenery by Bunny Christy is a few boxes, and it works well. Her costumes are just right. Director Marianne Elliott has created a splendid experience. Generally, they don’t make visuals this good.
