In a collaborative effort to unite Aurora through literature and performance, the Aurora Public Library and the Aurora Fox Arts Center have initiated "One Book, One Aurora: From Page to Stage." This community program promotes the read-and-watch experience of Mark Haddon's "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time." Residents are encouraged to dive into Haddon's novel either by digital or physical copy and then witness the story told on stage from March 21 to April 13, according to the City of Aurora.
As part of the events scheduled, an open rehearsal will be held on Feb. 27 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Aurora Fox Arts Center. It offers a sneak peek into the theatrical process and, attendees can indulge in a Q&A session with the production team. Those who attend also stand a chance to win tickets to the main event through a raffle. Additionally, a book discussion is set for March 1 at 10:30 a.m. in the Central Library offering another opportunity for lucky participants to win show tickets, as reported by the City of Aurora.
Enriching the experience further, on March 8 from noon to 1:30 p.m., Tallyn's Reach Library will host a "Meet the Cast" event. Here, director Richard Cowden and select cast members will discuss the triumphs and trials of adapting Haddon's work for the Aurora Fox stage. This dialogue also includes a ticket raffle for attendees. The grand finale of the initiative, slated for March 23, is a special reception at 1 p.m. followed by the performance with a concluding discussion with Cowden and the cast members on the main stage, according to the City of Aurora.
The program dovetails with a resource fair taking place March 21 to 23 at the Theater. It features organizations such as the Autism Community Store and Phamaly Theatre Company, extending a broader conversation and understanding of autism within the community. The Aurora Public Library boasts seven branches and one bookmobile, serving the community over 3.5 million times, while the Aurora Fox Arts Center celebrates its 40th season, representing Aurora’s commitment to its Library and Cultural Services Department.
