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Sensory Overload: Stage Captures Autistic Journey
20 Sep
Summary
- Stage design uses projections and geometric lines to depict sensory overload.
- Video design makes everyday objects appear strange and demanding for study.
- Alex Keenan's performance captures Chris's bewilderment and cheerfulness.
Birmingham Rep presents an ambitious new staging of Simon Stephens' adaptation of Mark Haddon's novel, focusing on Christopher Boone's journey. The production masterfully translates the book's depiction of sensory overload onto the stage. Eleanor Bull's versatile set design, shifting between clean geometric lines and detailed projections, immerses the audience in Chris's experience.
Hayley Egan's video design scrutinizes everyday objects, rendering the familiar as alien. This is complemented by Giles Thomas's busy percussive score and a multitasking ensemble that enhances the feeling of overwhelming information. Alex Keenan, in a gender-swapped role, shines as Chris, embodying the character's bewilderment and underlying cheerfulness.
Keenan's high-energy debut performance navigates Chris's internal struggles and external challenges with captivating enthusiasm. The staging, directed by Ned Bennett, successfully tackles sensitive themes like sex and death with matter-of-factness, ultimately highlighting Chris's resilience and encouraging audience support for her triumphs.
