Asolo Rep Announces Final Production of 2016-17 Season: TWENTY THOUSAND LEAGUES UNDER THE SEA

Asolo Rep proudly announces the final production of its 2016-17 season: TWENTY THOUSAND LEAGUES UNDER THE SEA, the stunning new theatrical re-imagination of Jules Verne's classic deep sea tale created by Craig Francis and Rick Miller, who will direct Asolo Rep's production, and presented by Canada's family-focused entertainment Production Company Kidoons and WYRD Productions. TWENTY THOUSAND LEAGUES UNDER THE SEA comes to life on stage by way of visually striking multimedia storytelling, with vivid projections that will take the audience on the voyage of a lifetime. Previews are Wednesday, June 7 and Thursday, June 8 at 7pm, opening night isFriday, June 9 at 7pm and the production runs through Sunday, July 2 in the Mertz Theatre, located in the FSU Center for the Performing Arts.

Magnificent sea creatures! A spectacular submarine! Time travel! Take a plunge into the pages of Jules Verne's classic science fiction story and get swept away in this dazzling multisensory experience. Our modern-day storyteller Jules finds himself transported on board the Nautilus submarine, where he joins the mysterious Captain Nemo on a journey to the depths of the sea. Brought to stunning life through a mix of unforgettable characters, eye-popping projections and interactive technology, this time-honored tale explores our place in time and space, and illuminates the mysteries of the deep blue sea. The perfect family summer outing, TWENTY THOUSAND LEAUGUES UNDER THE SEA continues Asolo Rep's ongoing initiative to present engaging theatrical work for families, and is recommended for ages 8 and up.

TWENTY THOUSAND LEAGUES UNDER THE SEA was developed in association with The 20K Collective and was commissioned for the TORONTO 2015 Pan Am/Parapan Am Games arts and culture festival, PANAMANIA. The production will have its highly anticipated U.S. premiere in September at New York's renowned New Victory Theatre.

"TWENTY THOUSAND LEAGUES UNDER THE SEA is an immersive theatrical production that connects the wonders of the Victorian era with today's technology and water environmental issues," said Rick Miller, who co-created the play and also directs. "As a father of two young people, I'm intensely driven to create entertainment that enlightens, educates, and empowers. We'll take you (and your kids) on an unforgettable ride to the depths of the sea... and The Edge of your seat."

"The feeling is like falling into a favorite storybook," said Craig Francis, the play's co-creator, "and we've kept the themes of connection present not only in the multimedia in the theatre, but also the videos and interactivity around it: we invite the audience to connect before, during, and after the show. I hope you will enjoy our mysterious Captain Nemo, as he comes to life onstage and continues his animated adventures online."

Hailed as the "father of science fiction," author Jules Verne penned more than 60 novels throughout his career that continue to intrigue and enchant readers of all ages worldwide. TWENTY THOUSAND LEAGUES UNDER THE SEA was transformed into a 1954 film, which starred Kirk Douglas and James Mason and garnered three Academy Awards®. In addition to TWENTY THOUSAND LEAGUES UNDER THE SEA, the author is well known for his other works including Around the World in Eighty Days, Journey to the Center of the Earth and The Mysterious Island.

"We're thrilled to present this brand new, boldly re-imagined stage adaptation of an iconic novel. Not only is it a treat for the senses, but it's also an innovative and profoundly engaging new piece of theatre. It will enthrall audiences of all ages," said Michael Donald Edwards, Producing Artistic Director of Asolo Rep. "Infused with timely ecological conservation themes, TWENTY THOUSAND LEAGUES UNDER THE SEA is particularly relevant for us right here in Sarasota, a beachfront community dedicated to preserving and protecting our oceans."

TWENTY THOUSAND LEAGUES UNDER THE SEA PERFORMANCE TIMES

• Wednesdays at 1:30pm and 7pm (excluding June 7, which only has an evening performance)
  
• Thursdays at 7pm
  
• Fridays at 7pm
  
• Saturdays at 2pm and 7pm
  
• Sundays at 2pm (no performance on Sunday, June 4)

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