Since his first appearance in an elementary school play, John Taylor, Ph.D., professor of theatre, has remained passionate for theatre. For his 25th Main Stage production at Adams State, he directs the award-winning drama, “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time,” opening April 25 on the SLV Federal Bank Main Stage in the Adams State University Theatre Building.
“I love this play and our production because it combines the magic of theatre with the capabilities of 21st Century technology. It really brings to the stage what theatre can be today,” said Dr. Taylor, School of Visual and Performing Arts director and chair of the Theatre Department.
Based on Mark Haddon’s novel, Simon Stephens’ adaptation earned six Tony Awards, including Best Play, in 2013. Dr. Taylor saw the Broadway touring production in 2017, and although he was enthralled, he waited for eight years for Adams State to have the capabilities to produce this story. “The play captures the true essence of theatre. It combines the magic of theatre to tell a story simply and theatrically with the advantages that technology brings us today. I’m excited by the challenges in staging this remarkable story.”
“The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” is ensemble based and asks the audience to go on a journey with Christopher Boone, a 15-year-old boy with neurodiversity challenges, who discovers that his neighbor’s dog has been mysteriously killed with a garden fork. In the play, the actors present the play, written by Christopher, about the incident. He and his parents are acting as themselves and the rest of the cast perform multiple characters.
The play is a family drama but also a detective story, who killed the dog, and a coming-of-age story – as Christopher tests himself, doing things he never thought possible. “Christopher faces his fears as he goes out into the world,” Dr. Taylor said.
The performance is not just about the young man, but also his parents as they confront their own crisis. Dr. Taylor believes the play is for anyone who has overcome challenges and kept going, past their self-perceived limitations. “Parents, high school students, college students, and anyone who has ever been in a situation where they push themselves beyond their fears in order to move forward, will relate to this story.”
Get your tickets now. Public performances begin at 7:30 p.m. April 25, 26, May 2 and 3; and a matinee begins at 2 p.m. May 4. The production is rated PG-13 for language. Tickets are $13 for general public and free to Associated Students and Faculty with current Adams State identification. Purchase tickets online or reserve by calling 719-587-8499.
