UCM Theatre and Dance just finished production of their fall play, “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time.” Captivating sensory effects paired with Junior Luke Habjan’s outstanding performance made for an immersive adventure as the audience was told the heartbreaking tale of the young and gifted Christopher Boone. 

  Lights opened on a truly disturbing scene as the audience was shown the silhouette of a dog with a pitch fork through its center. Right away, the raw talent in this cast revealed itself in Sophomore Gracie Heath’s portrayal of a distraught Mrs. Shears. The audience was then introduced to the many voices that live in Christopher’s head, played by Gracie Heath, Luke Englert, Sasha Fuller, Joseph Wandell, Isabella Bryn-Johnson and Anna Braman. Throughout the show, each voice exhibited their own quirk or fidget that allowed a clear distinction between the many brilliant actors. Siobhan, played by Hanna Wilson, served as a narrator throughout the story, reading what Christopher had written in his book, which is later revealed to be the story behind the play itself. 

  What started as a neighborhood investigation of “Who killed Wellington?,” quickly turned into a tragic discovery as Christopher’s mother, played by Molly Ross, was revealed to be alive. After a fight with his father, played by sophomore Riley Given, Christopher embarked on an adventure to London to find his mother.

  Riley Given and Molly Ross were the perfect dysfunctional parents in this sad tale. Their characters were both wonderfully portrayed and the obvious tension between the two ex-spouses was nothing short of realistic.

  Throughout the production, the use of colorful, glowing blocks created mesmerizing effects as the holders of the blocks built beautiful scenes right in front of the audience’s eyes. The crew also incorporated the use of projectors during these scenes to add to the immersive quality. 

  The use of audio effects was exceptional throughout the entire show as well. The show did not feature a clear set; however, nearly every setting in the story had a corresponding sound and the world building techniques via the blocks allowed the audience to visualize the world these characters lived in. Sounds were also used to demonstrate the effects of sensory overload, letting the audience feel what Christopher was feeling during these moments. 

  The show ended with a charming scene conducted almost entirely by Habjan, as he explained how Christopher solved a math problem referenced earlier in the story. The sequence ended with a bang, literally — via a confetti cannon — and left the audience smiling with hope in their hearts.

  With the combination of stellar performances by the cast and engaging practical effects done by the crew, “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time” was more than just a show— it was an experience.