Istanbul's 'Radyatro Show' Brings a World of Sound to the London Stage

LONDON, UK – February 09, 2026 – The bustling London theatre scene is set to welcome a novel theatrical experience as the acclaimed Istanbul-based company, Theatre Ak'la Kara, makes its UK debut. On February 27th, the Shaw Theatre will host the English-language premiere of “Radyatro Show: Around the World in 80 Days,” an inventive production that marries the immediacy of live performance with the imaginative power of radio drama.

This one-night-only event promises a unique take on Jules Verne's timeless adventure. Instead of elaborate sets and sprawling casts, the production relies on the skill of five actors who, in real-time, voice over 40 characters and create a complete auditory world. It’s a performance that invites the audience not just to watch a story, but to witness its very creation.

The Magic of Live Sound Creation

The core of the “Radyatro Show” lies in its innovative, patented method that puts the art of sound design center stage. The performance peels back the curtain on theatrical magic, allowing audiences to see and hear how a globe-trotting adventure is constructed from scratch. The cast stands before microphones, armed not only with their voices but with an eclectic array of everyday objects. A steam iron hisses to become a train, balloons pop to simulate conflict, and a vacuum cleaner whirs to life to evoke the roar of a grand vessel crossing the ocean.

This technique transforms the stage into a live foley studio, where the craft typically hidden in post-production becomes the main event. It’s a bold artistic choice that places immense trust in the audience's imagination. By seeing how the sounds are made, spectators become active participants in building the world of Phileas Fogg, his loyal servant Passepartout, and the rescued Aouda. The journey from London to Suez, Bombay, Hong Kong, and across America is painted not with lavish backdrops, but with a meticulously orchestrated soundscape.

“We invite London audiences to see - and hear - how an entire world can be created with just five performers and their imagination,” says Savas Ozdural, the format's creator. “It's a celebration of live performance and the magic of sound.” The result is a fast-paced, dynamic spectacle that is as much about the how of storytelling as it is about the what.

From Istanbul with Acclaim

The arrival of Theatre Ak'la Kara in London marks a significant moment of cultural exchange. Founded 15 years ago, the company has carved out a reputation in Türkiye for its commitment to pushing theatrical boundaries. The “Radyatro Show” is a prime example of their innovative spirit, having already garnered five major theatre awards in their home country, a testament to its critical and popular success.

This London performance represents the company's first foray before a British audience, a milestone in their international ambitions. By adapting the show into English, Theatre Ak'la Kara is making a direct appeal to one of the world's most discerning theatre markets. The production moves beyond being a simple import; it is a deliberate act of bridging cultures, sharing a unique Turkish theatrical innovation with a global audience. The company’s journey mirrors that of its protagonist, Phileas Fogg—a bold venture into new territories, driven by precision, creativity, and a touch of daring.

A Bold Fit for London's Evolving Stage

The “Radyatro Show” arrives in London at a time when audiences are increasingly hungry for experiences that defy convention. The city’s theatre landscape, while rooted in the grand traditions of the West End, has shown a growing appetite for immersive and experimental works. Productions that break the fourth wall and invite audience participation have found significant success, indicating a shift in what theatregoers seek from a night out.

In this context, Theatre Ak'la Kara’s production is not just a novelty but a timely addition to the city's cultural offerings. Its choice of venue, the Shaw Theatre, is also fitting. Located near the international hub of St Pancras, the 446-seat theatre has a long history of hosting a diverse array of performances, from National Youth Theatre productions to concerts by legendary musicians. As a “receiving house” that frequently programs touring and international acts, it provides the perfect stage for a company making its UK debut. The show’s blend of classic literature and experimental technique is well-suited to a venue known for presenting a broad spectrum of high-quality drama and entertainment.

A Classic Tale Reimagined for All Ages

At the heart of this technical ingenuity is a story beloved by generations. Jules Verne’s Around the World in 80 Days provides a robust narrative framework that allows the production's unique style to shine. The familiar tale of a punctilious Englishman’s race against the clock offers a clear, compelling plot that is accessible to all, making the experimental format engaging rather than alienating.

This broad accessibility is a key feature of the show, which is designed for audiences from age 7 to 70. For younger viewers, it’s a magical introduction to the power of imagination and the mechanics of theatre. For seasoned theatre enthusiasts, it’s a fascinating deconstruction of the art form, showcasing virtuoso performances and a clever, minimalist approach to world-building. The production explores not just Fogg’s geographical journey, but the theatrical exploration of time, live creation, and the boundless potential of the human voice. It poses a question that resonates both within the story and in the performance itself: can you achieve the impossible in the time you are given?