Paris, 1925, Montparnasse. Georges, Toyshop-owner, faces an avis d’expulsion (eviction notice). His solution? Travel the world.
Inspired by the famous novel Around the World in 80 Days, Thaddeus Phillips transports us to a world of adventure, a parallel universe where adults get to play, where grown men fit onto toy elephants and tin ships.
This mixed-media show is a beautiful balance of whimsy, chaos and joy. Every moment is choreographed with the efficiency and skill needed for a one-shot film. Shot on a visualiser, Phillips gives us a live silent-movie with no less beauty and ease than some of the greats. The only moment of rest for Phillips during the performance is when he lies sprawled on the floor, rocked gently by the express train to India, his trusty friend Passepartout at his side.
Phillips inhabits the character of Georges effortlessly, a charming bespeckled man who gives the authentic feeling of a favourite uncle who always brings exotic gifts from his adventures.
It is true that at times it felt as though there was a rush and a lack of deftness in the technical aspect of the show. The audience sometimes did not know whether to direct their attention at the large projected screen or the performer himself as he fiddled with the toy set. A delicate precision is needed in order to keep the show in focus, and at times this was lacking.
However, for the most part, for such a technically difficult piece to pull off, there was a strong sense of playful effortlessness in the performance.
Furthermore, the audience’s joy at Phillips’ enthusiasm is notable.
Have you ever secretly desired to be bopped on the head by a toy hot air balloon, a tin man brushing your ear? This seemed to be the case for many of the audience members, their grins lighting up the room.
Thoughtful-added details do not go unnoticed. For example, snowy mountain ranges passed by as the train rushed through Switzerland, after which a toy ice-skater bustled into the carriage and sat down next to Georges.
Phillips asks the question: What happens when toys come to life, in the moments they think we are not looking? What would happen if they took us along for the ride?
Around the World in 80 Toys is running until the 31st of August at Anatomy Lecture Theatre at Summerhall. Buy tickets here.
Image Credit to Johanna Austin.
