ArounD the WorlD in 80 ToyS ****

As the name might suggest, Jules Verne’s classic Around the World in 80 Days is one of the inspirations for this production. The other is the somewhat less well-known Georges Méliès.

While also a magician and actor, Méliès was a pioneer of film making, being particularly renowned for science fiction and special effects. He made his first film in 1896, with a further 500 to follow.

The advent of the First World War brought this prolific work to a shuddering halt, though, with many of his films melted down for weapons.

By the mid 1920’s, he was scraping a living in a toy stand based in Montparnasse railway station in Paris. He enjoyed a partial resurgence as his work and influence were rediscovered and acknowledged.

Jules Verne would probably have known about Méliès’ work and it is entirely plausible that they met. Verne’s novel describes Phileas Fogg’s journey east from London, circumnavigating the world in 80 days to win a wager.

ArounD the WorlD in 80 ToyS parallels, but does not entirely replicate, Fogg’s journey. Méliès’ odyssey included Venice, Aden, Suez, Bombay, Calcutta, Hong Kong, Tokyo, San Francisco and New York, book-ended instead by Paris.

The adventures are recounted using toys, special effects, cinematography and magic, bringing together the different strands of Méliès’ world. Together with creative input from Tatiana Mallarino, Steve Cuiffo and Ian Vespermann, the production showcases Thaddeus Phillips’ design, and hybrid cinematic and theatrical skills - echoing those of Méliès of course.

The action unfolds around a central diorama, whose nature is ever changing. It becomes railway compartments, cafes, ships, and more. Yet these transitions occur seamlessly, with seemingly nothing more than sleight of hand.

A live feed camera weaves the narrative, projected onto a backdrop screen. The delicacy and skill of the performer is intricate and captivating.

While the magic, storytelling and comedy are entertaining, it remains Phillips’ clever camera work and inventive design that catches the eye. A joyful hour.

Summerhall, until 31^st August.