Around the World in 80 Days

March 19, Brandon and I were asked to come to the Birmingham Festival theatre and capture the play that was currently happening. Brandon was the videographer, and I was the photographer. The fact that we are able to do what we love is truly a blessing. This particular event had us both nervous as we hoped to go watch it before the actual day, but it did not work out that way. For me I was not able to use a flash which is common in plays, but had me slightly nervous because without a flash things tend to blur. I vamped up the shutter speed and crossed my fingers.

The play started at 8:00. We arrived at the theatre about 6:30 so that we could get set up and ready before showtime.

Let me start off by saying I love theatre. I always have. I am not an actress by any means, but I love to go and always enjoy the performances. I had no idea that this theatre was even here. I know that this knowledge alone has made me a happier person. I will definitely visit more frequently.

This play was Around the World in 80 Days, and if you missed it, well all I can say is you missed it! It was amazing. This play was based on the novel by Jules Verne, and before you can ask the answer is no, there is no hot air balloon. The facts are that the hot air balloon was added in the 50's anyway, as it was not part of the original book. Hot air balloon or not this play had it all and more.

There were 5 very talented actors, well 4 actors and 1 actress. These individuals truly lit up the stage. They were creative, fun, hilarious, and best of all you could tell that they were truly enjoying it. These were M. Bates Redwine, Kevin Van Hyning, Chuck Evans, Holly Croney Dikeman, and Shawn Reese. Each individual truly brought you into their world and took you with them for a journey that would only last 80 days.

The schedule for going around the world started in London then onto Suez. From Suez to Bombay, from Bombay to Calcutta, from Calcutta to Hong Kong, Hong Kong to Yokohama, Yokohama to San Francisco, San Fransisco to New York City and finally from New York City back to where it all began in London.

The director, Janelle Cochrane, was a remarkable person. She had a quote from Albert Einstein in the program and it is one that I love and I hope that you all will to.

"Imagination is more important that knowledge. For knowledge is limited to all we now know and understand, while imagination embraces the entire world, and all there ever will be to know and understand." - Albert Einstein

There is so much to be said about this quote. If you want a copy of the play my husband can make them on DVD for $15 each. It is money well spent, especially if you enjoy the theatre!

I personally hope to have more opportunities to take photographs for live performances as they are truly something that I enjoy. If you have a need let me know. Monica Thach at monicathach@gmail.com or (205)229-1865.