The National Theatre's staging of Mark Haddon's best-selling novel 'The Curious Incident of the Dog In The Night-Time' has been met with critical acclaim following its opening at the Apollo Theatre in London's West End. Luke Treadaway, who plays a 15-year-old maths genius with Asperger's Syndrome, has come in for particular praise, and told the BBC that the part was a "golden opportunity."

Simon Stephens' stage adaptation of the hugely popular novel premiered at the National's Cottesloe Theatre last year, though the plaudits it received on that occasion meant it was bound for the West End. Both versions have been directed by Marianne Elliot, who co-directed the National Theatre's worldwide hit War Horse and many believe 'The Curious Incident' could reach a similar, international audience. Speaking after the opening this week, novelist Haddon said, "The West End is neither here nor there. It's not about flashing lights or the size of the theatre - it's about having a really good experience on stage." His involvement in the production has left London-born Haddon longing to write for the stage. "Writing a book is a very lonely business. You want to communicate with 10 or 20 or 50,000 people - you never meet them. I wrote something for the Donmar Warehouse a couple of years ago and I'm going to start writing for the theatre again. Partly because this experience has reminded me of that communal aspect to it."

Actor Treadaway described the cast and crew as "incredible people to work with," telling the BBC, "I'm completely the luckiest bloke alive to be able to do this part. It's such an amazing part. It's a joy, it's what I've always wanted to do."

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is at the Apollo Theatre in London until 31 August 2013.

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Watch a promo for 'The Curious Incident of the Dog In The Night-Time