Acclaimed director Phil Willmott has adapted a Jules Verne's classic tale into a family musical entitled Around The World In 80 Days, with original songs for Battersea Arts Centre's Christmas show, writes Yvonne Gordon.

It appealed to him because he was looking for a cracking story, strong characters, comedy, adventure and romance'.

He says: "Around The World seemed to have all the ingredients and the potential to appeal right across the board."

He read the book earlier this year and thought it was a great story, saying: "The admiration and appetite for other cultures shines out and is way ahead of its time."

However, he noted that Verne's forward-thinking did not extend to women.

"In the book Princess Aouda barely speaks, so I wanted to give her a story and a personality."

Phil, who also acts in the production, aims to bring out the emotional journey of the characters as much as the 80 day trip. He has tried to retain the pace and excitement of Verne's nail-biting adventure, also composing original songs for the show.

"I'd love it if some of my stuff got feet tapping, and have included three authentic songs from the period to help my stuff along."

BAC's musicals have been going for nearly ten years and there is, according to Phil, a great team spirit.

"The only reason to turn up is to create something we're very proud of and to have a lot of fun. So far we always have."

Round the World tells the story of adventurer Phileas Fogg, his servant Passepartout and Princess Aouda, who risk everything to prove the world can be circled in 80 days.

Mr Fogg braves waves, climbs clouds and holds on for dear life to the back of an irritable elephant.He faces arrest, bandits and the possibility of love in his challenging trip.

The show runs until Saturday, January 12 with no performances on Mondays or December 24 to 26, December 31 or January 1.

Show times are: Tuesday to Saturday at 7.30pm and

Sundays at 5.30pm with matines on Saturdays at 2.30pm. Tickets are £12.75 and concessions are £8.50. Children's tickets cost £6.50.

For further information telephone the box office on 020 7223 2223.

December 17, 2001 13:00