Around the World in 80 Days

by David Slifer

The first theater show of this school year was “Around the World in 80 Days,” a comedy production directed by Jo Hall. This show follows the characters of Phileas Fogg, John Passepartout and Ajouda. A wager is made between Fogg and the members of the Reform Club. The wager states that Fogg must travel the world in 80 Days. If he fails, he must pay 20,000 pounds. If he wins, the Reform Club owes him the 20,000 pounds.

The cast consisted of Anthony Rose as Phileas Fogg, Eli Brown as John Passepartout, Karin Powell as Ajouda and Brook Dunlap as Detective Fix. The ensemble played multiple roles during the run of this show. These actors were Ethan Kring, Cameron Mackey, Jada Mason and Cameron Nelson. This was a fantastic cast that worked well together. They worked off each other amazingly and did a great job at helping move this story along.

From left to right: Ethan King, Eli Brown, Jada Mason and Anthony Rose (photo courtesy of Jordan Ingersoll).

There were many aspects of this show that were well put together. From quick costume changes to comedic timing, this show was a blast to watch. Many different jokes landed very well whether they were verbal or physical. One that comes to mind was when Detective Fix introduced themselves in James Bond fashion and the 007 theme would play above them. The set for this show changed quite a bit, and it was well-designed by Sean Saari. This show was originally meant to be done in the Parlor Theatre, but due to that stage being currently closed, Saari had to redesign the set to fit a bigger stage. The set was well made and was well designed to help move the show and change the setting. It was well adapted to fit the larger stage.

From left to right: Eli Brown, Cameron Nelson and Cameron Mackey (photo courtesy of Jordan Ingersoll).

One of the funniest dynamics between characters was between Passepartout and Detective Fix. Dunlap and Brown worked so well together and did great at elevating the story and comedy of the show. Both of their timings and way of acting bounced off of each other well, and it was so great getting to see that dynamic quite a bit on stage.

This was a great way for the theatre department to start off the year. A comedy with a stellar cast, a great crew, and a great story full of growth, adventure and laughs. There are four more shows coming this year. The next one being the music review of “A Spoonful of Sherman” directed by William Perry Morgan-Hall. Be on the lookout for announcements coming for that show.