Around the World in 80 Days at the Theatre Royal Plymouth Review

Reviewed by Teresa Jones

Last night (12 September 2017) we visited the Theatre Royal in Plymouth to see the show Around the World in 80 Days, directed by Theresa Heskins.

The theatre is very easy to find and there is ample parking in at least 3 very close carparks.

We found the theatre to be bright and modern and extremely clean with a very relaxed atmosphere.

 We had a pre-show drink in the coffee area which had a good range of hot and cold drinks with plenty of snacks and cakes to choose from there are also sweets and popcorn to buy for enjoying during the show.

The staff in all areas of the theatre were all very polite, friendly and cheerful and were happy to help in any way they could.

The show is about Phileas Fogg, a wealthy bachelor, who makes a wager and bets his fortune on the fact that he can travel around the world in 80 days. His friends do not think it is possible so he sets out to prove them wrong. From the start Andrew Pollard, who plays Phileas Fogg, is the epitome of the perfect Victorian English gentleman.

This is such a busy show and made more impressive by the fact that there are only 8 actors playing over 100 parts and only 1 set, changes being cleverly done with trunks and suitcases. As Fogg’s group takes us all on their journey around the world there are boats, trains, a sledge ride and a wonderfully done bumpy elephant ride. It is fast and very very funny (Michael Hugo) whose performance as Passepartout, Fogg’s loyal valet, makes the show with slapstick and wit that all ages can enjoy. His boundless energy and interaction with the audience brought a smile to everyone’s face. There are some well-choreographed slapstick fight scenes and some amazing slow-motion action, also a love story as we see Fogg falling in love with a girl they rescue during their travels.

All in all, this show has something for everybody no matter your age if you need an enjoyable funny night out this is for you.

All the comments we heard after the show were positive and most people including ourselves left with a smile.

I would recommend Around the World in 80 Days.

Rating: 5/5

Tickets cost from £8 to £27.50 (booking fees may apply).

Around the World in 80 Days is at the Theatre Royal in Plymouth from 12-16 September 2017, for more information or to book tickets visit www.theatreroyal.com or call the box office on 01752 267222.

Theatre Royal Plymouth, Royal Parade, Plymouth, PL1 2TR | 01752 267222