Dilip Guha ★ NewDelhi : Aadyam Theatre, a pioneering theatre initiative by Aditya Birla to preserve the celebrated art form of theatre, showcased ‘The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, and was produced by The ARTS Company established by the renowned theatre & film actor, director, and producer Atul Kumar in 2024 at the Kamani Delhion 11th and 12th January 2025.
Aadyam theatre, launched by the Aditya Birla Group in 2015, has significantly strengthened Indian theatre. By providing essential support, it allows artists to concentrate fully on their craft. Now entering its seventh season, Aadyam has expanded and diversified its offerings, enriching audiences with a variety of productions and ensuring that Indian theatre remains vibrant and contemporary.
Director Atul Kumar, a renowned theatre personality, has brilliantly reimagined Mark Haddon’s acclaimed novel, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, adapting it into an Indian setting. Originally brought to the stage by Simon Stephens, a British-Irish playwright this adaptation has garnered numerous accolades, including the prestigious Olivier and Tony Awards.
The narrative centres around Christopher Bonne, a fifteen-year-old boy on a mission to uncover the truth behind his neighbour Mrs Pinto’s dog’s mysterious death. This journey is about solving a puzzling crime and exploring Christopher’s unique world and his interactions with the people and environment around him.
It is an exploratory tale of not just solving this mystery of the wicked act but also knowing about Christopher’s world that he inhabits and how he interacts with this world around and within.
Atul Kumar, the renowned actor and theatre director, has aced many art forms and dabbled into different languages, showcasing a vivid repertoire both in India and abroad. With this latest adaptation, the director brings his signature flair of immersive storytelling by setting the story in the by-lanes of Bandra of Mumbai. The play is an atypical thriller, where, as the play unfolds, it delves into the deeper questions of what is accepted as normal. It ploughs beyond the surface level, digging deeper into the complexities of human lives and discovering some unpleasant truths from the perspective of a teenager. Most interestingly, The audience is immersed with stunning projections, captivating physical movements, and an electrifying soundtrack.
Director, said, “We are thrilled to kick off Season 7 of Aadyam Theatre in Delhi with the play, especially after how well-received it was in Mumbai. The adaptation moves the setting from London to Mumbai, bringing the story closer to home. This cultural proximity will give audiences a deeper connection and relatability with the characters and their world. The play is innovatively crafted to dive deeply into the nuances of family, relationships and the inner workings of the young person’s curious mind. It celebrates the human spirit, determination, and hope – qualities that promise to strike a chord with the audience.”
“I found myself drawn to its narrative. Frankly, I quickly forgot that the protagonist, Christopher, is neurodivergent and on the autism spectrum. His condition faded into the background as I became immersed in his relationships with his neighbours, the mysterious death of the dog, and his remarkable journey to find his mother, whom he believed dead. His perseverance against all odds-managing to reunite with his mother, appearing for a challenging math exam, and achieving an A*-w was nothing short of inspiring. Halfway through the book, I was struck by the realization: Oh my God, this boy also has this condition. And that realization made me reflect deeply on how society views normalcy and abnormality.”
The play centres around Christopher D’Souza, a bright teenager who isn’t quite like other children. In his world, prime numbers are life, metaphors are lies, and life’s nuances are interpreted in a tad too literal way that will touch your heart while making you laugh. When his neighbour’s dog gets murdered, he is determined to solve the mystery so that things can start making sense again. As he plays detective, the twists lead him back to his own family and what transpires is something that nobody sees coming — least of all Christopher himself. Through his story, one navigates the deeper complexities of life, from family dysfunction to the power of love and resilience in overcoming unexpected challenges.
In terms of performances, the entire cast impressed viewers. The play immerses the audience in Christopher D’Souza’s psyche through a first-person perspective, a technique that the production masterfully maintains. Dheer Hira’s portrayal of Christopher is captivating; his mannerisms vividly convey anxiety, and his nervous movements convincingly depict a fifteen-year-old. He balances Christopher’s manic episodes with vulnerability; his voice throw, expressed in both Hindi and English, along with body language, maps the different moods and moments, leaving the audience enthralled by his performance.
Harssh A. Singh delivers a particularly spectacular performance as Baretto, Christopher’s tormented father, who tries his best to do right by his son but ultimately succumbs to his flaws. Additionally, Dilnaz Irani is incredible as Christopher’s confidant and teacher, Fatima Miss. She drives the narrative forward by filling in the gaps that Christopher cannot articulate. Her concern for Christopher feels genuine and realistic, never condescending. The audience admires her playful moments, especially when she breaks the fourth wall. Her acting truly stands out as she narrates effectively, serving as Christopher’s confidante.
The play has received a generally warm reception, impressed by its ability to convey the point of view of the young protagonist and the compassion of his school mentor. The audience was captivated by the visual effects used in the show. The staging and lighting of the play make a significant impact. The lighting, especially during Christopher’s panic attacks, is intense and moving. Additionally, projections on the back screen of the stage replicate Christopher’s floor drawings, which serve as a charming homage to the novel.
Visual effects were with each changing theme, noticeable Key Themes are
Misfit in Society: Christopher’s unique perspective on life highlights the struggles of being different in a complex world.
Family Dynamics: The story delves into family dysfunction and the impact it has on individuals.
Resilience and Love: Through Christopher’s journey, the play explores the power of love and resilience in overcoming unexpected challenges.
Emotional Impact: The play amplifies the experience of being a misfit kid, making it relatable and poignant. It combines humour and heart, creating an unforgettable emotional rollercoaster.
The play is a masterful blend of mystery and emotional depth, offering a unique perspective on life through the eyes of a brilliant teenager. It is a story that will leave one questioning own perceptions of reality and the complexities of human relationships.
This production exemplifies what theatre should be—stellar acting, innovative lighting, creative scenery, and a heartfelt story. Whether one has read the novel or not, he will enjoy solving the mysteries alongside Christopher.
The production boasts of an exceptional ensemble cast including renowned names like Dheer Hira in the lead role of Christopher D’Souza.
Jaimini Pathak as Peter D’Souza,
Dilnaz Irani as Fatima Miss, Shivani Tanksale as Judy D’Souza,
Salone Mehta as Mrs. Sheryll Pinto/Principal Gaitonde/Misvaihto,
Harssh A. Singh as Father Baretto/Daniel Pinto/Cst Shopkeeper Wise A Man On Bench/Drunk Two/Man,
Vidushi Chadha as Lady In Street/Information/Punk Girl/Woman O Woman Behind Counter/Drunk One,
and Abhay Kaul as Inspector Waghmare / Sub-Inspector Deshir D’Costa Uncle/Uncle Terry/Station Policeman sauk Guard were seen in prominent roles.
