‘The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time’ at Benedum; Pitt vs. Virginia (Wed., 1/4/17)

As Christopher demonstrates, there’s more than one curious incident in “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time.” photo: Joan Marcus.

1) A few years back, the British novel called The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time was one of the most curious books to hit the best-seller lists. The stage play adapted from it then won major awards in both England and the United States, including the 2015 Tony Award for Best Play. Pittsburghers can start the new year with the national touring production of Curious Incident. The character at the hub of the story, 15-year-old Christopher, is an autistic savant. Or as Christopher himself puts it, he’s “a mathematician with certain behavioral difficulties.” Like many people diagnosed as being on the autism spectrum, the teenager cannot relate to the routines and interactions of everyday life as others do—but he is able to see and sense the world in ways that others can’t, while thinking profoundly outside the box. And according to theater critics in London and New York, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time pulls off a rare feat. Beyond just bringing an unusual character to life, it brings his world view to life, inviting the audience into Christopher’s mind to share his experience. 7:30 p.m. Pre-show event of Know The Show Before You Go. Performances through Sunday. Heinz Hall, 600 Penn Ave., Cultural District. (MV)

2) The Pitt men’s basketball team and coach Kevin Stallings are coming off a tough overtime home loss to Notre Dame. They regroup and take on the Virginia Cavaliers tonight in a 9 p.m. game.  Next up is an away game at Syracuse on Saturday. Hail to Pitt! Petersen Events Center, 3719 Terrace St., Oakland.

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