Notes from the Director
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is close to my heart because of my own experience as a neurodivergent director, playwright, and actor. I was diagnosed with ADHD and a learning disability as a young child. Theater and role-play helped me to separte the many overwhelming feelings I have, and to see the world through other's eyes. I selected this play because I felt the need to discuss what it’s like being neurodivergent (a term used to define individuals with Autism or ADHD) and truly embrace Christopher’s perspective and experience.
In this production we use ensemble work and devised theater techniques to represent what the events of the play feel like to Christopher. This play is a true ensemble piece and there are moments where everybody can shine. No roles are just in passing. The group efforts of the ensemble represent moments of overstimulation for Christopher. Many neurodivergent people experience overstimulation due to differences in sensory processing in the brain. Overstimulation for Christopher comes from loud noises, being touched, being forced to make eye contact, and changes in routine. The ensemble represents how Christopher processes his environment. As an audience, I wanted us to truly see and feel from Christopher’s perspective rather than as a strange outsider.
I also wanted us as an audience to experience Christopher’s joy, excitement, and positivity. The end of the play is ambiguous; it’s left to actors and directors to decide whether Siobhan believes Christopher can “do anything.” In this production, I believe he can.
I would like to thank the faculty and staff of Orange Coast College for their support in creating this ambitious production. I would like to thank the crew and designers for making a lovely and effective production. To the cast, thank you for your patience and hard work in such a physically demanding and intense rehearsal process. Thank you, Chefs! To the audience, thank you for coming and supporting live educational theatre, and we hope you enjoy the show!
-Wyn Moreno
