A curious big little production in Ashburton
It's worth the trip out to Ashburton this weekend to see this dazzling youth production of a much-loved story.
Tonight, an alluring production of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time opened in Ashburton, brought to you by the Big Little Theatre Company (BLTC). I had the privilege of attending yesterday's dress rehearsal, which ran smoothly and featured strong, emotionally resonating performances.
Amazingly, it's a year today since opening night for Riccarton Players' production of the same play (in which I appeared). This year's BLTC production is a more tech-heavy version of the show using the original unabridged script, with scenes that explore the characters in slightly more depth.
The Big Little Theatre Company has taken the Big Ashburton Event Centre and turned it into a Little intimate venue, with tiered seating packed closely around three sides of a pleasingly geometric stage. The set pays close homage to the original Royal National Theatre production in London. It has mathematical vibes, with radiant animated line drawings helping to set the scene. At times, props miraculously descend from the ceiling. The sparse, futuristic music feels perfect for the story.
Curiously, this youth production features an adult in the lead role, with Anthony Watson returning to BLTC after 14 years to play autistic teenager Christopher Boone – a role that director Jackie Heffernan has long envisaged for Watson. The portrayal is level and measured, allowing the ensemble to play metaphysical "voices" who bring to life the emotions trapped inside – emotions that the character Christopher is often unable to express or handle effectively. Watson thus provides a stable foundation that allows the youth ensemble to shine by channelling Christopher's inner voice. The inversion of ages between the actors and their characters is surprisingly effective, making the show pop. Contrasting personalities between Christopher and the other main characters bring the show to life.
The beauty of Curious Incident is the way Christopher and the ensemble complement each other. We see Christopher's external appearance, mysteriously lurching between calm and sudden distress. But through the ensemble, we see what's happening on the inside, and the way Christopher perceives the world. I was impressed by the engaged, attentive performances of the ensemble throughout the show.
The two acts of Curious Incident are quite different from each other. The first act introduces Christopher in a world in which he is comfortable, while the second act plunges him into the unknown. The ensemble feels like an unstoppable tide, sweeping across the stage in a blur of motion that entraps Christopher as he sets forth on his brave adventure. The play is a stream of Christopher's consciousness, as the cast flow seamlessly from one scene to the next.
The ensemble do a stellar job keeping track of a complicated array of props and set pieces – many of which are contained in white cubic boxes which are endlessly moved around the stage and sat upon, yet are always miraculously in the right place when they are needed. The boxes sometimes light up in symbolic patterns in sync with the action and music.
The leads of the play bring an intensity and gravitas beyond their years. Oakleigh Haywood plays the epic role of Siobhan – part narrator, part empathetic confidant, bringing the vibe of a cool but loving and well-spoken teacher. Callum Tait plays a believable father (Ed Boone) swept up in the intense emotions that life's battles stir up within him. I felt pangs of emotion well up within me as he delivered the weighty line that alters the course of the play.
Isabel Wang's impeccable character work deftly brings characters of a range of ages to life – most notably Ms Shears and Mrs Alexander. Her portrayal of bemused old age is a delight. Freddie Oldham is a crowd favourite, leveraging his young age to his own advantage and bringing some hilarious gags to life. But also, he plays a far better elderly Uncle Terry than I did a year ago.
BLTC's production of Curious Incident is designed to be accessible and minimise potential distress for a wide range of audiences. Violence is often suggested rather than being portrayed too realistically. The programme includes a list of trigger warnings. Would-be audiences are invited to get in touch if they have any questions or concerns. This is the original version of the play, including some swearing.
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by the Big Little Theatre Company is playing at the Ashburton Event Centre from Thursday 9 to Sunday 12 April 2026. Tickets are on sale now.
The dress rehearsal ran for two and a half hours including interval, but I suspect the remaining performances will be snappier.
