Around the World in 80 Days – New Vic Theatre

Around the World in 80 Days – New Vic Theatre

By Laura Eason and Directed by Theresa Heskins   

Photographs courtesy of Andrew Billington

‘Joyous and uplifting’ is the only way to describe ‘Around the World in 80 Days’ at the New Vic Theatre – the audience laughed out loud and showed their appreciation throughout and rounded it off with a well-deserved standing ovation.

What a splendid way to travel the globe!  With a cast of just eight actors playing 109 characters, six trains, five boats, two dances, one storm, a circus act and an elephant, the play was very fast paced and energetic, but with a comfortable feel to it.

There were familiar faces among the cast, with the charismatic Andrew Pollard as Phileas Fogg and the multi-talented Michael Hugo as his side kick Passepartout – both reprising their roles from previous performances.   And then some not so familiar faces – but all of the actors played great parts – in fact Pushpinder Chani, Thomas Cotran, Elliot Parchment-Morrison and Kiara Nicole Pillai played 115 parts between them.

This fantastic play has been brought back to the New Vic to celebrate their 40^th Anniversary, and what a great choice!

The music, sound effects, lighting, choreography and the set are all on point – and the casting, props and costumes are just perfect.

The story and the getting ‘around the world in 80 days’ is incredible in itself, but the main event has to be the comedy – Michael Hugo is a rare talent – he has just ‘got it’ and makes us laugh out loud – or LOL as they call it nowadays.   Thomas Cotran also had his moments of comedy genius – and has ‘stage presence’ in abundance.

There are many little things that really make this play special … the mixing up of Passepartout’s name …. the repetitions … the swaying from side to side with furniture to superbly suggest boat travel … the audience involvement ….. the fights …. the paper throwing and catching – not just one sheet but piles thrown at a time.  One day I will find out how they do it!!

To sum it up …. Around the World in 80 Days – a wonderful play packed to the rafters with fun, laughter and skilful performance from start to finish. A definite 5 STAR performance!

You have until 20th June to see for yourself –  Tickets available from newvictheatre.org.uk