Alongside co-producers Melting Pot, Birmingham Rep are today thrilled to announce initial casting for their new production of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, inspired by the multi-million-selling, internationally acclaimed novel.
EastEnders’ favourite Charlie Brooks (best known for her long-running role as Janine Butcher in the soap) and theatre credits including The Ocean at the End of the Lane (National Theatre, UK Tour) and Joe McFadden (BBC’s The Crow Road and Holby City, ITV’s Heartbeat and 2017 Strictly Come Dancing winner) play protagonist Chris’ parents, Ed and Judy.
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time opens at Birmingham Rep on Saturday 5th September 2026, ahead of a major UK tour. The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is adapted from Mark Haddon’s multi-million-selling novel by acclaimed Playwright Simon Stephens and will be directed by Ned Bennett.
Of her casting, Charlie Brooks says, “I am thrilled to be part of this new production of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, having been a huge fan of the book and Simon Stephens’ previous adaptation. Working alongside such a talented cast and creative team has been both inspiring and rewarding, and I cannot wait for audiences to experience the heart, humour, and humanity at the centre of this remarkable play.”
Joe McFadden continues, “I loved The Curious Incident Of The Dog In The Night-Time when I first read it, and I was completely blown away by the stage production in the West End so I’m absolutely thrilled to be playing Ed in this new tour and can’t wait to bring this brilliant, moving and uplifting story to audiences across the UK alongside such a fantastic cast.”
Chris Boone is gifted with a brilliant mind for numbers but unsettled by the unpredictability of people and everyday life. When a neighbour’s dog is discovered killed, Chris comes under suspicion. Determined to prove their innocence, Chris becomes both detective and suspect, drawn into a mystery that grows darker and more complex with every clue uncovered.
What begins as the search for a culprit soon reveals secrets closer to home, forcing Chris to confront truths that will test their courage, family, and understanding of trust, independence, and the wider world. Inventive, gripping, and moving, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time combines the intrigue of a whodunnit with a powerful coming-of-age story in an unforgettable theatrical event.
Further casting and creative team to be announced.