AROUND the World in 80 Days is well known from many versions taken from the Jules Verne novel. This production from Tilted Wig is a very different with an incredibly creative show.
The small cast of five as circus performers, set out to perform the story of Phileas Fogg, Alex Phelps, using the circus as their backdrop to travel around the world. Phileas Fogg sets off on his journey after a bet at The Reform Club where he intends to return to the same place in 80 days, on 21st December. Accompanied by his newly appointed valet – Passepartout, Wilson Benedito. Their journey takes many forms of transport including an elephant, when they rescue a young Indian Women, Aouda, Genevieve Sabherwal, from her certain death. They are also followed by Detective Fix, Eddie Mann, convinced that Phileas Fogg has stolen money from the Bank of England. We don’t just get the story of Phileas Fogg, they also intersperse the story of Nellie Bly, Katriona Brown, an American journalist who after reading the story of Phileas Fogg took on the journey around the world completing it in 72 days.
The bright and colourful set of the circus is ingenious for the setting. The multi-levels are used brilliantly, especially the use of the trap door. With the range of circus props to enhance the story, adding plenty of humour. This is one of the most visually, physical productions I’ve seen for a long time, making it accessible for all ages.
Runs until Saturday 25th March at Darlington Hippodrome.
