The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time arrives at New Wimbledon Theatre from 10th to 14th November 2026, as part of a major new UK tour that sees Alex Keenan and Imi Price become the first women to play Christopher Boone. Directed by Ned Bennett and adapted by Simon Stephens from Mark Haddon’s novel, this fresh staging stars Charlie Brooks and Joe McFadden as Christopher’s parents, Judy and Ed. The original National Theatre production won seven Olivier Awards in 2013, including Best New Play, and this new touring version brings the story to a theatre near you throughout the 2026/27 academic year.
What to Expect on Your School Trip
Students can experience the acclaimed stage adaptation of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, based on Mark Haddon’s bestselling novel. Combining mystery, innovative theatre-making and powerful storytelling, this production follows Christopher Boone as they investigate the death of a neighbour’s dog, uncovering unexpected truths about family, trust and growing up.
This gripping production offers an excellent opportunity to explore themes including family relationships, identity, communication, resilience and independence. Through inventive staging, striking visual design and compelling performances, students will see how theatrical techniques can bring complex narratives to life. It’s ideal for GCSE, A Level and BTEC Drama students studying performance, design and adaptation, and it also supports English Literature and PSHE by encouraging discussion around empathy, perspective and the challenges of navigating the wider world.
Please note this production contains strong language, themes of death and family loss, depictions of emotional distress, and flashing lights and sound effects.
A New Staging of a Modern Classic
Stephens’s adaptation premiered at the National Theatre in 2012, structuring Christopher’s story as a play within a play, narrated by his teacher Siobhan from his own writing. It went on to win seven Olivier Awards the following year and become one of the most produced British plays of the last decade.
This touring production, from producers Melting Pot and Birmingham Rep, opened at Birmingham Rep in September 2026 and continues across the UK through May 2027. The casting adds a genuinely fresh angle for Drama students to get their teeth into: Keenan and Price alternate in the role of Christopher, the first women to take it on since the play premiered, while Brooks and McFadden play his parents. “An incredible rollercoaster of a tale,” said The Guardian, a fitting description of Stephens’s structurally daring take on the novel.
Why Book It for Your Next Drama Trip
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time links to Drama, English and PSHE, and works particularly well for GCSE, A Level and BTEC Drama students studying performance, design and adaptation. Student tickets start from £20, with 1 free adult ticket for every 10 students booked, and school trip rates are available for Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evening performances, plus the Wednesday matinee.
