Most of you will be familiar with the Jules Verne adventure that sees Phileas Fogg and his manservant Passepartout circle the globe in 80 days.
A true classic is deservedly restored in this marvellous stage adaptation directed by Benjamin Hambling.
You're in for a whirlwind ride and you'll walk outof the theatre feeling like you're the one who's been around the world in 80 days, such is the chaotic force of the action on stage.
The immense energy the cast puts into this production is inspiring. Just imagine six actors playing no less than 32 different characters in one show.
The cleverly designed staging and props allow characters to move seamlessly across continents, rush through busy cities, jump on and off boats and trains and even sip tea on the back of an elephant. The work of the set designers and builders cannot go unrecognised, as they have truly outdone themselves for this production.
The audience was won over by Liam Hagan's performances. He slipped in and out of many roles bringing to each a unique comedic element; Detective Fix had the audience in stitches and even his subtle interactions with narrator Ali Hambling were delightful.
Barry Brett was another class act in a very strong cast. Like Hagan, he morphed into many different characters, often right before our eyes, each very different and all fabulously funny.
This is one of the most dynamic productions 16th Avenue Theatre has staged. The obvious talent both on and off stage is exciting and offers Tauranga theatre goers plenty to look forward to.
