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Grossmont's Summer Theatre Arts Conservatory 2016 Presents 80 Days, based on the book "Around The World In 80 Days by Jules Verne
By Kathy Carpenter
Associate/Youth Reviewer www.sdtheatrereviews.com
August 1, 2016 (La Mesa) - Imagination can take you anywhere. It can even make the impossible happen. The adventure of Phileas Fogg, played by the somber Daniel Castro, is all about taking a chance--believing in yourself and going for the gold.
In Phineas Fogg's case, he bets he friends and the Men's Club that he can travel the world in 80 days--quite an accomplishment in the fall of 1872. During the show, they go from London to Egypt, India, Hong Kong, Japan, and across America, then back to London. During his travels he meets and falls in love with Aounda, played by the amazing Delia Mejia, who continues to grow in her craft.
One thing different in this production is the singing. For me, the songs didn't seem to match what was going on exactly. They were, however, totally entertaining, especially Miss Mejia's amazing voice. The dancing rocked. But I was taken out of the story. "The song "Secret Agent Man" was a definite highlight.
My two favorite characters in this play were Detective Fix, played by the fabulouly funny Stewart Caprio and Passepartou, played by the talented Safiya Quinley. Her French accent was perfect. I also want to add the girls who played the gentlemen at the club were great. The entire ensemble rocked, many of them doing double and triple roles--a truly talented cast. Calamity Proctor, played by Amy Oliverio, was an audience favorite.
The play was direcred by Brian Rickel, who has a incredible attitude working with the young actors on this show. The conservatory is where the high school and college students come together to create magic. This was the third time around, and I find they are doing a fabulous job. It warms my heart to look at the program before the show and recognize the names of students I've seen perform at their high schools and enjoyed.
Take a journey, leave your home for an evening. The Stagehouse Theatre has excellent air conditioning. For this show they are also offing a chance to win a Taylor Guitar; maybe you feel lucky. The Conservatory is run on patron contributions. If you can not come out to a show think about making a donation. Every dollar helps.
“80 Days” continues at the Stagehouse Theatre at Grossmont College August 4 & 5, 2016 at 7:30pm and August 4, 5, 6, 2016 at 2:00pm.
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