The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey (STNJ) at Drew University kicks off its season of "Fantastic Voyage" with the classic Around the World in 80 Days. Filled with a cast of STNJ alums, this tale of adventure sends the season soaring.
This is the world-wide premiere of Bonnie J. Monte’s script of the Jules Verne classic. Monte, the Artistic Director at STNJ, created a story in which six cast members play over thirty roles throughout the production. A narrator is switched between three players to help tell the incredible journey Phileas Fogg and his trusty valet, Passepartout, make around the globe.
Michael Schweikardt’s minimalist set is ideal for the show. There are countless locations that require a variety of configurations for the set pieces. The use of two "Onstage Assistant Stage Managers" is a unique and effective way of transporting from Fogg’s home in London to the stifling Suez to the titanic Pacific Ocean.
In the starring role of the fascinating Phileas Fogg is Robert Krakovski. He delivers all of the quirky and mysterious idiosyncrasies of Fogg. His nonchalant attitude towards the monumental task before him is comical and somewhat endearing.
Kevin Isola gives an outstanding performance as the ever-distraught and ever-proud Frenchman Passepartout. He steals the show with his physicality and humor. From defending his precious family watch to fretting over his mounting gas bill, Isola never ceases to amuse.
Other noteworthy performances include Edmond Genest as Captain Bunsby, the fearless commander of the ship that brings the travelers to Shanghai; and Mudge, the hysterical sledder who brings the audience (and cast members) to hysterics. David Foubert gives Detective Fix a stealthy spin, along with Jay Leibowitz, who wittily plays the consulate for every stop along the way.
Enjoy a family-friendly show filled with adventure and travel of epic proportions at STNJ’s Around the World in 80 Days. Performances at the Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey run through May 24.
For tickets/more information, call (973)-408-5600 or send an e-mail to BoxOffice@ShakespeareNJ.org.
Photo courtesy of ShakespeareNJ.org.