Andover High School Puts Neurodivergence Center Stage in Powerful Fall Production

ANDOVER, Minn. — The Andover High School Theatre Department closed its fall season with a compelling production of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, presenting a nuanced and emotionally resonant portrayal of neurodivergence that drew strong community engagement.

The production ran November 7–9 and November 14–16, offering audiences a vivid look into the world of Christopher Boone, a 15-year-old mathematics prodigy whose extraordinary mind is matched by his struggles with sensory overload, social interpretation, and navigating unfamiliar environments. Adapted by Simon Stephens from Mark Haddon’s acclaimed novel, the 90-minute one-act play challenged both performers and audiences to consider how differently people experience the world.

A Theatrical Exploration of the Mind

Andover’s staging leaned into the immersive design the play is known for. Students used precise lighting cues, layered soundscapes, and physical theatre techniques to externalize Christopher’s internal logic and emotional journey. Scenes depicting crowded stations, unexpected noises, and moments of cognitive overwhelm were crafted to mirror the sensory intensity experienced by many neurodivergent individuals.

Although the play never explicitly names Christopher’s diagnosis, he is widely recognized — by theatre scholars, educators, and audiences alike — as a character who embodies traits associated with autism spectrum disorder. The production’s commitment to portraying his perspective with care and authenticity was evident throughout.

Strengthening Community Understanding

This fall performance was part of a broader district-wide theater season in the Anoka-Hennepin School District, where high schools showcased diverse stories and socially conscious themes. By choosing Curious Incident, Andover High School stepped beyond traditional fall fare to spotlight neurodiversity and deepen community understanding.

For student actors and technical crew, the play provided an opportunity to engage with award-winning material that demands emotional precision, intellectual depth, and creative problem-solving. For the audience, it offered a rare and thoughtful invitation to consider the experiences of those who process the world differently.

A Tradition of Tackling Complex Stories

Andover High School has built a reputation for selecting challenging works that foster empathy and encourage dialogue. This year’s production continued that tradition, demonstrating once again how student theatre can serve as both artistic expression and community education.

Production Details

• Show: The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time
• Location: Andover High School Theatre, Andover, MN
• Run Dates: November 7–9 and November 14–16, 2025
• Key Themes: Neurodivergence, autism, family relationships, sensory processing, perseverance

MinneapoliMedia