It’s easy to forget that not so long ago, travelling across the globe was a very difficult and long-winded undertaking. Jules Verne’s classic adventure story, Around The World In 80 Days - here adapted for the stage by Tilted Wig and York Theatre Royal - offers a fun-filled reminder of a time when exotic climes really were ‘a world away’.

In keeping with Verne’s 1872 novel, this family-friendly production tells the story of English gentleman Phileas Fogg’s attempt to circumnavigate the globe in 80 days on a wager of £20,000. But this new adaptation is no straightforward retelling of the terrific tale. Added into the theatrical mix is the task of recounting another story - a true one this time, about trailblazing American journalist Nellie Bly, who, in 1889/90, completed her own record-breaking trip around the world in just 72 days!

The stories are told by a madcap band of travelling circus performers - a ringmaster, an acrobat, a clown, a trick rider and a knife thrower. The five work together flawlessly, brilliantly playing numerous parts and, along the way, incorporating swift costume changes and splendid circus performances. Their comic timing is a joy to behold as well.

The set is impressive, too - well designed and modelled on a circus. Props such as hoops, ladders, boxes, bicycles, a see-saw and a trap door have several uses, enabling the cast to create boats, trains, carriages and even an elephant!

There’s also a scroll at the front of the set, turned by the actors, which helps guide the audience through countries visited and oceans crossed.

Time is also taken to address problematic aspects of the story as it unfolds - such as instances of sexism and racism - acknowledging that the 19th century was a very different period of time with very different attitudes prevailing.  

This is a fantastic feelgood show that’s suitable for people of all ages. The slapstick humour and high jinks, evident throughout, provide many an enjoyable laugh-out-loud moment, while the cast’s high-energy enthusiasm makes for a brilliantly entertaining theatrical experience. 

4 stars 

Sue Hull

Around The World In 80 Days - via Malvern Theatres until Saturday (18 February) - is a trip well worth taking!