Captivating Journey: 'Around the World in 80 Days' in Midsummer Scene Festival at Dubrovnik's Lovrijenac Fortress
25.06.2023
The 9th Midsummer Scene Festival, the only Croatian theatre festival in the English language, has opened with the premiere of the musical 'Around the World in 80 Days' based on Jules Verne's novel, at Dubrovnik's Lovrijenac Fortress.
The project originated in England, was specifically written and composed for this Dubrovnik festival.
Just climb up to Lovrijenac and embark on an adventure presented by Mr. Phileas Fogg and his servant Passepartout, well-known characters from Verne's work that is familiar to the whole world. The actors prepared for the performance in England, where the project was created, specifically tailored for the Dubrovnik premiere.
"We have 90 minutes instead of 80 days to take you on a journey around the world, with wonderful music and exhilarating performances by the actors, so we will take you on a trip filled with uproarious entertainment. We hope you will enjoy it," said Sean Aita, the director.
And we can say, after watching the premiere, that this is a performance not to miss!
There are only five actors, but they give their all, singing, playing instruments, dancing, and rapidly changing roles and costumes.
"I wanted something acoustic, so we have instruments like the mandolin and guitar. They sound good in this space and give a timeless feel as much as possible," said Leo Elso, composer, and actor.
The intention of the Midsummer Festival with this musical is to enrich the city's cultural offer and attract tourists. Although the majority of the audience is perhaps from the UK, it is interesting that people from all over come to their performances.
"I can say that over the years at Midsummer, where we have performed 100 shows, we had people from 50 to 60 countries, not just English and Americans as our guests. Everyone can understand us; this is entertainment for the whole family," emphasized Darija Mikulandra, one of the producers.
