Review: THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME Wows at the Kennedy Center

Let's just get right down to it. In 2014, Simon Stephens' highly acclaimed and award-winning play THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME (based on Mark Haddon's novel of the same name) offered me one of my most memorable Broadway theatergoing experiences in years. Thus, I was most enthused by the news that it would tour, and play the Kennedy Center. While the cavernous Opera House may not be the most appropriate Kennedy Center space to view the play - especially from the rear orchestra where I was sitting - the current tour offers just as powerful of a theatergoing experience as my initial one.

One of the primary reasons this production is so powerful - aside from Stephens' brilliant writing, and detailed characterizations - is Adam Langdon's portrayal of Christopher Boone (Benjamin Wheelwright plays the role at select performances). From the moment Langdon utters his first word, we're captivated. He physically and emotionally throws himself into the demanding role, and gives an utterly believable and compelling performance of a young man on the autism spectrum determined to figure out the mysteries in his life, face his own fears, and prove his capabilities.

When we meet Christopher, he's on the path of trying to figure out who killed his neighbor Ms. Shears' (understudy Josephine Hall) dog with a garden fork, despite his well-intentioned and protective father Ed's (Gene Gillette) insistence he let the incident go (he already had one altercation with the police). This investigation leads him to uncover a secret about his mother Judy's (Felicity Jones Latta) whereabouts. As Christopher sets out to connect with his mother - a journey that takes him to London - he must face situations and "everyday" experiences in the real world that he would ordinarily find tremendously uncomfortable (noise, crowds, close contact with others, etc.). He records this truth-finding journey in a book-turned-play, guided by his schoolteacher Siobhan (Maria Elena Ramirez). When the truth is set free, Christopher must not only navigate some difficult family dynamics, but pass his A-level math exam - something that's not expected for a kid who attends a special school, but something he very much believes he can do, and do extremely well at that. There are no limits.

While all of the talented cast members (many playing multiple roles) are essential to telling this beautifully simple story, it is really Langdon's show.

Speaking of the beautiful story, while some might argue that the technological elements in this London-based National Theatre production detract from the emotional impact of the story, I would argue the opposite is true. The modern technological elements provide us greater insight into Christopher's unique mind, and what he experiences when he navigates the typical world. In instances where words might fail, lights (Paule Constable), sound (Ian Dickinson for Autograph), and video (Finn Ross) are used to let the audience experience what it's like to be Christopher in what to him are very overwhelming situations. Likewise, Bunny Christie's unique scenic design acts as the perfect blank platform for Christopher's discovery.

As directed by Marianne Elliott, all of the pieces fall together perfectly - the extremely creative technical elements, and the tremendous acting - to tell a story that's not worth missing.

Running Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes, including one intermission.

THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME plays The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts - 2700 F Street, NW in Washington, DC - through October 23, 2016. For tickets, call the box office at 202-467-4600 or purchase them online.

Photo Caption: Adam Langdon and the 2016 "Curious Incident..." North American Tour Cast; by Joan Marcus.

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