The 39 Steps

The show is full of wit, humour and farcical performances. The actors showed great flexibility and energy in their performances. I really enjoyed Vic Gray’s attention to detail in the set, props and the humorous touches. The play was performed on a bare stage with step ladders; wooden boxes which represented, train seats, a car, an aeroplane, there were also tables, a reception desk, a bed, a practical door on wheels, a hat stand and a window frame brought on and climbed through whenever anyone was required to escape through a window; a leather armchair; and a lamp post. In this production the audience are required to use their imagination and combined with good lighting and sound effects they are transported from London to Scotland in no time. The train journey to Scotland was well done, and left Hannay hanging from the Forth Bridge. The aeroplane and car were simple but extremely effective. 

The lighting was well designed and was effective and well operated. The sound effects are extremely important in helping to create scenes such as the train journey and the aeroplane, also there are many different pieces of music required throughout, they were all well recorded and well cued in. Props had been well sourced and used well. 

The costume and make-up teams certainly had their work cut out making sure everyone had suitable costumes and when they wore them. The addition of various hats and wigs enabled them to make swift and believable character changes.  

The actors were all excellent and there wasn’t a weak link among them. They had an extraordinary amount to remember, with a few playing numerous different characters – sometimes within the same scene – and doing the scene changes themselves. The scene changes were slick and there were even choreographed comedic moments during the scene changes adding an extra special dimension to the play. I don’t think I’ve ever been to see a play where the scene changes and props made such an impact and enhanced the play so much. 

Luke Coldham as Richard Hannay was energetic and charismatic. His performance was consistent throughout, and he had a good rapport with the other characters. 

Christina Ashford was excellent as Annabella Schmidt she had a great air of mania and mystery. The scene when she was handcuffed to Richard Hannay and they were trying to eat a sandwich was very funny. 

Josh Handley and Michael Southgate as a comedy duo were excellent. Their chemistry and timing was impeccable and most enjoyable to watch. 

During this production I was never in doubt as to which character each actor was playing. This was due to the attention to detail and the versatility of the actors involved. Congratulations everyone and thank you for the warm welcome I received. 

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.