Interview: CURIOUS INCIDENT Star Gene Gillette Discusses the Show's 'Spectacle and Storytelling'

The National Theatre production of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time has captured the hearts of many across the globe. Based on Mark Haddon's popular novel, the Tony Award-winning play tells the story of young Christopher Boone, a student with an exceptional mind, struggling to relate to the world (and the people) around him.

Playing Christopher's dad in the acclaimed national tour is theater and TV actor, Gene Gillette. Amidst performing in Chicago, Gillette joined Broadway World for an exclusive interview:

This show has done so well in the West End, on Broadway, and now touring across the nation. What keeps people coming through those theater doors?
First and foremost, this show is a marriage of spectacle and storytelling. It's the story of a boy named Christopher as he tries to solve a mystery about a dog who was killed. Along the way, he discovers some other things too. The special thing about Curious Incident is that we are seeing this entire plot unfold through Christopher's eyes. We aren't even certain if we're getting the full truth; but we're completely in his shoes.

You're traveling across North America telling this story. What has this journey been like so far?
You know, performing in each part of the country is a different experience. The south was much more reserved, for example, but also so gracious. Cities like Minneapolis or Chicago are incredibly responsive right away. Every audience truly is unique and that makes telling the same story over and over again an amazing acting exercise. As a cast, we need to keep the heart but also keep things fresh and new.

You have a major role in this play. Ed is Christopher's father and such a dynamic character. What is it like playing a man who is so layered?
That reminds me of something I discussed at a talkback in Florida. After seeing the play, someone said, "I felt so many things about Ed." That resonated because it's so true. I think he's a man with a good heart who loves his son immensely. He also has his own problems and issues. He's a real person.

I saw this show last night and noticed lots of amazing technology involved. The set is truly one-of-a-kind. Do you have a favorite "special effect"?
There's one scene in particular where I'm sitting backstage every night. Christopher is on one side of the stage and Siobhan, his mentor, is on the other. We get this beautiful projection of London, and hear Christopher talking about the stars and space. From the back, I get to see this cool silhouette. It almost always makes me cry.

Your past experience includes the national tour of War Horse, Macbeth, Streetcar Named Desire and many more. Do you have a favorite role so far?
I did Hamlet when I was young and, in my opinion, you can't beat that role. I'd love to do it again with more experience under my belt. I would also say War Horse and The Lieutenant of Inishmore are favorites. I can't pick just one!

In fact, Curious Incident is up there as well. When I heard that it was going to tour nationally, I read the book a few times and decided to audition. I knew I wanted this role.

You're currently in Chicago for a few weeks! Is there anything you want to do while you're here?
One of my favorite reads is "Devil in the White City". I'd love to see some of the places mentioned in that book and see where the World's Fair happened. Also, listening to some authentic blues is on my list of 'to do's'.

Last but not least, any projects on the horizon?
Right now, I'm just focusing on this show and trying to make every night as good as possible. It's not that often that straight plays tour nationally. This is an incredible opportunity and I'm soaking in every second.

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See The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time at the Oriental Theatre in Chicago until December 24th. For more information, visit www.broadwayinchicago.com.

Photo Credit: Joan Marcus

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