Recently, I had the pleasure of attending Hull Truck Theatre’s latest production, ‘Around The World in 80 Days‘, based on the novel by Jules Verne. This masterfully adapted stage production, written by Laura Eason and directed by Hal Chambers, will captivate both fans of the classic adventure and travel enthusiasts.
This captivating tale invites us to join the journeys of Phileas Fogg (Stefan Adegbola) and his assistant Passepartout (Miriam O’Brien). Fogg, faced with the adventurous wager to circumnavigate the globe in 80 days or lose his fortune, embarks on this daring expedition that unfolds on a cleverly designed circular stage. The stage, with its rotating outer part and numerous props, serves as a dynamic backdrop for the actors to depict their thrilling travels.
Amidst their journey, they are trailed by a Scotland Yard Inspector, Fix (Dyfig Morris), who suspects Fogg of bank robbery. In an unexpected turn of events, they rescue a young widow, Mrs Aouba (Saba Shiraz), during their time in India, adding a layer of delightful romance to the narrative.
What makes this production truly stand out is the cast’s brilliant performances, employing a simple yet effective set to bring this classic story to life. The children in our group were so engrossed that they remained transfixed throughout the entire 2.5-hour run time.
While the first act sets the pace and builds the narrative, the second act weaves in more humour, captivating the audience with laughter. The overall fast-paced nature of the show, paired with exceptional performances and riveting music, ensures the audience is thoroughly engrossed from beginning to end.
An added delight of the Hull Truck experience is the uniquely flavoured ice cream available during the interval.
What I appreciate most about Hull Truck Theatre is its inclusive approach to performances. This particular production included closed captions, immensely assisting those with hearing impairments.
In their quest to cater to different audiences, Hull Truck also offers a British Sign Language interpreter for one show, an audio-described version for another, a baby-friendly performance, and a ‘relaxed’ version ideal for those with neuro-diverse conditions. Their innovative ‘Touch Tour’ even allows visually impaired attendees to experience the set before the show begins.
This vibrant and entertaining production is not just a must-see but a truly inclusive experience. With its child-friendly nature, it serves as an excellent medium to introduce younger generations to a brilliant story and diverse cultures from around the world.
Don’t miss the opportunity to embark on this thrilling journey! ‘Around The World in 80 Days’ runs until this Saturday (20th May). Tickets are available at hulltruck.co.uk. Hurry and secure your seats for this unforgettable adventure!
