Hillcrest puts new spin on classic production this weekend

Posted 11/1/22

Get ready for a whirlwind adventure - it’s time to take a trip around the world! November 4th, 5th, and 6th, Hillcrest Academy will be presenting Mark Brown’s adaptation of the Jules …

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Hillcrest puts new spin on classic production this weekend

Posted

Get ready for a whirlwind adventure - it’s time to take a trip around the world! November 4th, 5th, and 6th, Hillcrest Academy will be presenting Mark Brown’s adaptation of the Jules Verne favorite, Around the World in 80 Days. Hijinks ensue as Phileas Fogg and servant Passepartout try to win a bet by going all around the world in only 80 days. They are pursued by the very determined Detective Fix, who’s absolutely convinced Fogg is really a bank robber on the run. Their travels take them through India, Hong Kong, Japan, and all the way across the United States before they end up once again in London. But will they make it in time to win the bet? 

Iowa Public Television’s new miniseries about this story has garnered a lot of interest, but Hillcrest’s presentation puts a different spin on this classic. In Hillcrest’s production, Phileas Fogg, Passepartout, and Detective Fix are all women, and end up rescuing Aouda, a dude (not damsel) in distress. The changes to the original story were necessary because of the available cast, but they’ve also made for some unexpected comedy, such as when Ms. Fogg squares up with a U.S. Army colonel to defend Aouda, through fisticuffs if necessary!

One special feature (and challenge) of this production is that the characters don’t just travel around the world via train and steamer, but the cast does as well in the way they present their lines. Students are stretching themselves to learn several different accents, which are sure to bring extra depth and fun for the audience. But it’s not just the actors who get to go above and beyond. The crew members in this rendition of the play are also called upon to join in the action by being onstage and part of the production, including providing many live sound effects. 

This fast-paced, slapstick, thrill-a-minute comedy will appeal to young and old alike. Audiences will delight in the minimal sets, which allow for everyone - actors, crew, and viewers - to help create the magic together! Performances will be Friday, November 4 at 7:00 PM; Saturday, November 5 at 7:00 PM, and Sunday, November 6 at 3:00 PM. 

General admission tickets for all three performances can be purchased by calling (319-656-2073) or emailing (office@hillcrestravens.org) the school office or at the door of each performance. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for seniors (65+) and $5 for students. Doors will open 30 minutes before each show.

Check out hillcrestravens.org/80days for more information. You won’t want to miss this adventure!