In the last year and half A.D. Players has witnessed the transition to new leadership, a new state of the art building, mounted a show during a hurricane, grieved the passing and celebrated the life of Founder and Artistic Director Jeannette Clift George, and now is moving into their 52nd season! “We have had quite a year!” said Executive Director Jake Speck, “Over the last twelve months we have examined every aspect of our organization and have made some new and exciting changes while staying true to our roots and taking advantage of everything our new, beautiful theater has to offer!“

The 52nd season opens with Mark Brown’s adaptation of Around The World In 80 Days. When asked about selecting the shows for the season, Interim Artistic Director Kevin Dean said, “I’ve always felt if you can start your season with a bang, the energy will have an exciting ripple effect, coursing from show to show, building tangible momentum through the end of the year. Honestly, I can’t think of a more energetic show than one with stampeding elephants, raging typhoons and runaway trains. Mark Brown has ingeniously adapted the adventure novel by Jules Verne into a hysterically creative roller coaster ride and we are delighted to present it to Houston audiences.”

“Our city is reflecting on the year anniversary of Hurricane Harvey, and we want to provide a place of escape, entertainment, and laughter. Around The World In 80 Days accomplishes just that.” said Speck.

First published in 1873, the story of Phileas Fogg and his French valet Passpartout’s attempt to travel around the world in 80 days on a bet became one of Jules Vernes’ most acclaimed works. In 2001, the stage adaptation by Mark Brown was released, utilizing 5 actors to play the many characters. The script has been produced around the world, from Utah and New York to Bangledesh and New Zealand. Local actor and director Philip Lehl is spearheading this production as director with a uniquely creative and innovative approach. “Mark Brown’s adaptation is essentially five kids on a playground acting out Jules Verne’s amazing tale!” Lehl said. Utilizing only what one might find in a theater (ladders, ropes, road boxes, etc.), five incredibly talented actors and a gifted musician challenge you to use your imagination and take you on a hilarious and riveting trip around the world!

Join A.D. Players at The George Theater for the launch of their 52^nd season, and check out Around The World In 80 Days, running Wednesdays to Sundays until September 30. You can purchase tickets at adplayers.org.