Play Gives Audience a Lens into Neurodiversity
The FC Theatre Arts production, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, explores and celebrates neurodiversity both on and off the stage.
Our brain works in several different ways. Neurodiversity describes the idea that people experience and interact with the world around them in many ways. There is no one “right” way of thinking, learning, and behaving, and differences are not viewed as deficits. Neurodiversity doesn’t often make the main stage. This play hopes to change that.
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is a play by Simon Stephens based on the novel of the same name by Mark Haddon. A play within a play featuring a community led by Christopher Boone, a young man self-described as having behavioral problems, who is on a mission to find the murderer of his neighbor’s dog, Wellington. The audience will jump into Christopher’s world to experience the journey he takes to unlock truths. The play highlights aspects of neurodiversity related to relationships, education, family, and community.
Initially set to open in spring 2020, The Curious Incident of the Dog was postponed when the pandemic began. As the cast and crew readied to take the stage this month over two years later, the play’s themes seem more relevant than ever.
Director Candice Clasby wanted to direct a play that could showcase Fullerton College’s diverse student population and bring awareness to neurodiversity. Clasby connected with the play because the titular role of Christopher is neurodiverse, and wanted to use this play as a vehicle highlight the talents of neurodiverse actors.
“I thought it was a cool way to show those who are neurotypical how somebody’s brain might work differently,” said Clasby.
It was important for Clasby to have talent both on and off stage who identified as neurodiverse. An actor who identifies as being on the spectrum will portray the titular character, and an understudy will also help fulfill the role.
“I like to be conscience when making casting decisions. I want the world that we see reflected on the stage,” Clasby said.
Quentin Ival was initially cast as for the ensemble in 2020 and is returning as the assistant director. Ival had the opportunity to expand his theatre repertoire beyond technical and acting. Ival identifies as being on the spectrum.
“Having someone who identifies as being on the spectrum to be part of the creative team is helpful, so I’m not putting all that pressure on the actor to bring their experience to the stage,” Clasby said.
The decision to double-cast the show was partly due to the strong cast. Clasby and Ival worked with a cast that consisted of 24-25 cast members and six leads. There are four completely different casts, she said.
“None of the shows will be the same,” Ival said. “That’s one of the best parts of having so many different people who go in and out of these lead roles. We will never get the same story twice. It will always have a different feeling to it.”
The play will include six performances from May 5–7 and May 12–14 at 7:30 p.m. in the Bronwyn Dodson Theatre.
“This is an excellent opportunity for the audience to step into someone else’s shoes,” Clasby said. “It is a lens into a neurodiverse world for neurotypical people.”
Tickets: Tickets are available, starting at $16 presale and $19 at the door. Tickets can be purchased at the Box Office, over the phone, or online. Online ticket sales will incur an additional fee per ticket.
COVID-19 Safety: All visitors must wear a face covering while indoors.
Location: The Bronwyn Dodson Theatre is located next to FC’s Staff Parking Lot C West, off North Lemon St, in Building 1300.
Parking: Public parking is available in the Lemon Street Parking Structure, and day parking passes are available for purchase. For additional information, visit the Theatre Arts Department website or call the Box Office at 714-992-7150.
