The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time Debuts at the Ahmanson Theatre

Based on Mark Haddon's best-selling novel of the same name, "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time," now playing at the Ahmanson Theatre, is a unique and moving play that takes audiences into the disoriented mind of its main character through the use of graphics, music, lighting and projection.

Christopher Boone (Adam Langdon) is a British teenager who can't stand to be touched, hates the color yellow, excels in math and astronomy, always tells the truth and takes everything literally. He appears to be on the autism spectrum, though the word "autistic" and "Asperger's" is never used in the dialogue. Instead Christopher is presented as someone who has a unique and different outlook on the world around him

When he finds a neighbor's dog speared with a garden fork and the police and community suspect him of the fatal deed, Christopher sets out to solve the crime. This journey takes him to new and confusing places both physically and mentally and unveils bigger familial mysteries and truths.

The set, a huge black cube with grids, lets the audience experience how Christopher views the world.

Throughout Christopher's journey, lights, music and effects reflect his experiences solving brilliant math equations, viewing the expansive constellations of the universe and navigating London's busy public transport system.

Adam Langdon does an excellent job of portraying Christopher's challenges and struggles to interpret everyday life. the supporting cast is equally impressive including Maria Elena Ramirez as Siobhan, the play's narrator and Christopher's teacher, and Gene Gillettte and Felicity Jones Latta as Christopher's tormented and estranged parents.

The performance and staging for "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time" is sometimes overwhelming, but the message of the play is universal and clear. The audience walks away encouraged to listen, love and have compassion for people who are different from ourselves.

"The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time" runs through September 10.