Writer: Mark Haddon
Adapted by: Simon Stephens
Director: Ned Bennett
Reviewer: Christine Stanton
“Creative Staging“
4 / 5
Chris may struggle with unpredictable human nature but she is a wizard for finding patterns, solving mathematical equations and piecing together information. So much so, that she’s solved two mysteries, done her maths A Levels years in advance and written a book – impressive at the best of times, but even more so as a schoolkid!
It all started when the neighbour’s dog was brutally killed with a garden tool, and Chris (Alex Keenan) sets out to find justice. Interviewing the locals and trying to understand who could have hurt the lovable family dog, she documents her findings, much to her father’s (Joe McFadden) frustration. He wants her to stay out of trouble, focus on school and stop bothering the community with questions. What follows is a solo trip to London, a shocking discovery about her family and a new understanding of her own bravery, confidence, determination and compassion. A touching coming-of-age story about neurodiversity, family and learning to navigate a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming.
First premiering 14 years ago at the National Theatre in London, it has since had an abundance of revivals, tours, praise and won numerous awards. It’s easy to understand how – the balance between humour, insight and emotion is well handled, with Chris being a likeable and endearing young lead, played fantastically in this instance by Keenan. Her journey is elaborate and engaging – both from a narrative, and character development standpoint, ensuring the audience can fully understand and relate to her struggles or triumphs. Joe McFadden and Charlie Brooks (Chris’ mother) add an additional layer to an already emotive piece, their interactions with Chris sweet and realistic.
Though Chris and her parents are the main characters, the show is brought to life fully with the entire cast (Imi Price, Robert Penny, Sera Mustafa, Tom Clegg, Jerone Marsh Reid, Matthew Bulgo, Carla Garratt, Bridgette Amofah, Alex Murdoch) collaborating and jumping in and out of scenes (sometimes, literally!) with energy and precision. The show narrator / teacher Siobhan (Bridgette Amofah) sets the tone of the narrative throughout, while the majority of the cast play numerous additional roles – sometimes providing brief conversations in passing, other times becoming a prop of sorts and merging into the set design, in this wonderfully creative touch. The design is where the show really comes into its own – though not as elaborate as when it was staged in the West End, it still combines an impressive collection of projections and props that create a visual spectacle that stays in your mind and cleverly signifies life through the lens of Chris’s mind.
Runs until 14th November 2026, then continues to tour
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