Around the World in 80 Days

Around the World in 80 Days. The Talisman Theatre, Kenilworth. 16 – 18 March.

Preview by Sharon Sully

Kenilworth-based youngsters at The Talisman Theatre and Arts Centre have been busy rehearsing since Christmas and are all set for their Youth Theatre members to go on a whirlwind race around the clock for their next main stage production.

‘Around the World in 80 Days’ is an exciting adventure that Laura Eason has adapted from the Jules Verne’s classic novel. The story unfolds as the fabulously wealthy Victorian gentleman Phileas Fogg (played by Oliver Mason, age 15 years) wagers his life’s fortune that he can circumnavigate the globe in just eighty days. Along with his hapless valet, Passepartout (played by Orestis Kallipolitis age 12 years), he sets out on a dazzling escapade that takes him from the misty alleys of London to the subcontinent and onto the Wild West as they race against the clock on a dizzying succession of trains, steamers, wind-propelled sleighs, and elephants.

Director, Caroline McCluskey, has been working hard in rehearsals with all the members of the Youth Theatre, ranging in ages from 10 to 18 years, creating a polished performance for The Talisman’s mainstage. Caroline commented, “It’s been an absolute pleasure working with all these wonderful young people. It is very much about giving every youngster a chance to shine and I always have such fun at every rehearsal. Their commitment and professional attitude have been apparent right from the start. To add to the fun, we’re having a steampunk theme this year which has resulted in a highly creative set, musical choices, and costuming style.”

The Talisman Youth Theatre meet up regularly for workshops throughout the year and annually they present a main stage production with all the support from the technical and set design team at the voluntary run theatre. The Talisman Theatre and Arts Centre is committed to providing local youngsters a creative outlet whereby they can come together to help grow an individual’s confidence and of course have lots of fun and build friendships along the way!

The Youth Theatre’s production of ‘Blood Brothers’ last year was a complete sell out so if you wanted to whisk the family up and take them on an adventure around the world then don’t delay - the clock is indeed ticking, and tickets are selling quickly so don’t miss out.

Around the World in 80 Days runs from Thursday 16 to Saturday 18 March with a matinee on Saturday as well.Tickets can be booked online via the website www.talismantheatre.co.uk/whats-on or by calling the Box Office on 01926 856548.