Richmond Theatre – until Saturday 20th May 2023
Reviewed by Carly Burlinge
5 *****
Around the World in 80 Days comes to life on stage at Richmond Theatre. Based on the Novel by Jules Verne this amazing, fun, exciting, creative and full of laughter production has been adapted and directed by Juliet Forster.
The set opens up in a circus where the performers are discussing how they shall begin to tell the story and adventures of Phileas Fogg (Alex Phelph). A man who is very set in his ways. He comes across very reserved and likes to do the same things day in and day out. “He likes what he likes and likes what he knows”. He decides that he will travel around the world in 80 days, taking the audience through an adventurous whirlwind of a trip. He passes through many countries and experiences many cultures whilst also teaching us some history along the way. His Character is played tremendously well, very guarded and a little mysterious, making him great to watch. The show also becomes a tale of two entwined when the Acrobat (Katriona Brown) and the trick rider (Genevieve Sabherwal) decide that if the story of Phileas Fogg is going to be told then so should the story of Nellie Bly. A female reporter completing the same journey in only 72 days. They both strongly believe that a female role is important but the ringmaster just wants to get on with Phineas’ version, this all becoming very comical. He likes to think he’s in control but with an interrupting cast, especially the Acrobat who loves to take the stage whenever she gets the chance, continuing to get Nellie Bly’s story across to the audience. Making it all a battle on stage to get their stories out, while also ending up very humorous and amusing, also having the audience giggling away as well as smiling from ear to ear. She did an exceptional job and was spectacular to watch. I could go on all day about just how good this cast were, everyone had something fantastic to offer. Making it an outstanding show to watch.
As they continue through their travels, this consisting of all forms of transport. The cast show much creativity using small props that give such an impressive impact to the show. From riding the Train/Locomotive in India to using a ladder for the coaches. So much imagination and it was just splendid to watch alongside some exceptional fast changes of characters and movement on stage, from sailing ships in storms to riding an elephant. Such skill was shown throughout and the cast showed an amazing connection throughout the performance.
It was lovely to see so many children also enjoying the show, making it a perfect evening out for all. An all-round great performance offering much skill and knowledge that was just splendid to watch and take in with much laughter and delight. A spectacular production that shouldn’t be missed.