The ETSU Theatre and Dance Department is hosting their rendition of ‘The Curious Incident of a Dog in the Nighttime’.

On Nov. 17-20, students from across all departments will be performing in this well-known play in the Bert C. Bach Theater, located in the ETSU Martin Center for the Arts. 

Written by Simon Stephens as an adaptation of the novel by Mark Haddon, the play tells the story of Christopher Boone. Boone is a 15-year-old mathematical genius with special needs who sets out to solve the mysterious murder of his neighbor’s dog. The play follows Boone through his journey, where he encounters many friends and potential suspects along the way.  

To prepare for their roles, the cast began their preparations on Sept. 26 when they met with family consultants who have family members on the autism spectrum.

Caleb Vaughn, who plays Boone’s father in this weekend’s play, said “our main goal of this production was to be authentic as possible and provide the appropriate representation for individuals within the autistic community.”  

‘The Curious Incident’ is one of two productions put on by the ETSU Theatre Department across the span of a single academic school year. For auditions, the cast followed a traditional audition process for all roles cast in the show. This includes the initial audition, as well as callbacks. Following the casting process, performers from ETSU rehearse for six to seven weeks before the initial opening of the show.  

“There are a lot of key components like pace, set design, and story line that really made me want to be apart of this show,” said Vaughn, “It’s a show that highlights and brings awareness to autism and individuals in the autistic community.”  

Showing Nov. 17-20 in the Martin Center, the cast and stage crew have worked relentlessly to create a show woven with authenticity, excitement, and entertainment.

“I am excited for the opportunity to present the story of Christopher Boone to our audiences,” said Vaughn. “It has been a pleasure to work diligently over the past few weeks to bring authenticity to this performance.”  

In the spring, ETSU Theatre will present “Little Shop of Horrors.” To learn more about upcoming productions, visit https://www.etsu.edu/cas/theatre/upcoming-production.php.

(Contributed/ETSU)