Around the World in 80 Days: use of performance space

Understanding the Performance Space

The performance space plays a significant role in “Around the World in 80 Days.” It is not just the location where action happens, but a tool that enhances the storytelling and contributes to the characterisation.
One must pay attention to how the characters interact with the environment around them. These movements should underline their state of mind and progression of the plot. For example, Phileas Fogg’s confident stride portrays his determination and calmness against adversity.
The performance space must also reflect the temporal progression of the narrative. Techniques such as lighting changes, sound cues, and slight shifts in set pieces can illustrate the passing of the 80 days.
A comprehensive understanding of the performance space is also crucial for blocking, choreographing fights, and executing stunts safely. The high-stakes nature of the narrative warrants intense physical sequences, including a circus sequence, a fight scene, and a daring rescue, all of which need careful planning and execution.
Lastly, rehearsals are pivotal to understanding the performance space in terms of practicality (actor and prop movements, safety concerns) and artistic value (creating dynamic visuals, enhancing symbolic meanings). This hands-on exploration should be an ongoing process throughout production.

The Staging and Use of Levels

The staging can be flexible with this play, allowing for creative explorations. This could range from a traditional proscenium to thrust, end-on, or in-the-round formations.
Transitions between locations should be as smooth as possible to keep the pace of the story. This could be achieved through the use of minimalistic sets that can be quickly adjusted, or by utilising multimedia projections.
The use of levels can help to visually distinguish between different locations. Higher levels can depict the various vehicles Fogg and his companion use, adding to the dynamic nature of the play.

Creating a Sense of Global Travel

A key challenge of performing “Around the World in 80 Days” involves creating a sense of travelling across diverse countries within a confined space. Use of native soundscapes, props representing iconic symbols, or projections of different landscapes can hint at global travel.

Building Connection with the Audience

The relationship between performers and audience can be manipulated by integrating some scenes among the audience, breaking the fourth wall. This technique can build a more intimate connection and engage the viewers in the exciting race against time.

Always remember, the performance space is essentially another character in the play, enhancing the narrative and providing context for the action. Do not overlook its importance when revising “Around the World in 80 Days”.