Charlie Brooks and Joe McFadden will lead the cast of a new UK tour of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, opening at Birmingham Rep this September.
The production, adapted by Simon Stephens from Mark Haddon’s bestselling novel, will be directed by Ned Bennett and embark on an extensive UK tour following its Birmingham run from 5 to 19 September 2026.
Brooks, best known for her long-running role in EastEnders, will play Judy, while McFadden, known for Holby City and winner of Strictly Come Dancing 2017, takes on the role of Ed, the parents of protagonist Chris.
The story follows Chris Boone, a young person with an extraordinary mind for numbers but who struggles with the unpredictability of everyday life.
When a neighbour’s dog is found dead, Chris becomes the prime suspect and sets out to solve the mystery, uncovering deeper truths about family, trust, and independence along the way.
The production combines elements of a whodunnit with a coming-of-age story, offering audiences an inventive and emotionally resonant theatrical experience.
Speaking about joining the cast, Charlie Brooks said, “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 added, “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.”
Director Ned Bennett said, “I’m absolutely thrilled to be directing this new production of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time. Mark Haddon’s compassionate and extraordinary novel, and Simon Stephens’ moving, inventive, and imaginative adaptation, combine to create a complex play with remarkable emotional precision. I’m excited to be collaborating with this extraordinary cast and creative team – and to be working with the brilliant teams at Melting Pot and the Birmingham Rep.”
Since premiering at the National Theatre in 2012, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time has become one of the most acclaimed British plays of the 21st century, winning seven Olivier Awards and five Tony Awards, and being seen by over five million people worldwide.
Following its Birmingham premiere, the production will tour widely across the UK, with visits planned to venues including Brighton, Nottingham, Liverpool, Edinburgh, Manchester, Cardiff and many more through to May 2027.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
