Things to Do

‘The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night’ is a Success

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Tony Maples Photography

 

Sometimes we go to shows to be entertained. Perhaps we want to shut off our brains and just sit and enjoy a night out without thinking much. But sometimes we go to both be entertained and to stretch our minds in some new way. “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night” provides us a chance to be entertained, but also to think and dissect and explore along with the cast. For some, the ability to challenge our thinking while we watch a story unfold enhances the experience.

Photo: Kirk Tuck

“The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night” is both light and cerebral; humorous but deep. It allows us to step into the shoes of someone quite different from most of us. Preston Straus, our protagonist, is on the spectrum and experiences the world with great intensity. Arguably a genius, he sees numbers and pattern in most things, yet struggles with many social cues. The story begins with an unfortunate event and follows Preston’s subsequent response. But, the plot goes much deeper and we join the cast while they explore some deep relational dynamics and meander through some sticky life events. While Preston may be different, the audience can easily identify his depth of experience and recognize his hurt. Many will be able to relate to his depth of imagination.

Photo: Kirk Tuck

The stage and props are simple but visually stimulating. A few simple choreographed scenes delight audiences as they mirror at times the mechanical thinking of our protagonist. Preston’s journal, read aloud by his teacher and mentor, help us to better understand what’s happening psychically for Preston as he navigates a world that often disregards his experience. We are better for getting to step into his shoes, and the audience leaves having had the chance to look through someone else’s eyes.

Photo: Kirk Tuck

“The Curious Incident” is another example of great entertainment brought to Austin. It runs through the beginning of March at the Zach Theatre. Don’t miss it!