The 39 Steps

The 39 Steps is a clever parody adapted by Patrick Barlow, of John Buchan’s 1915 novel.  Although, the play is written for just four actors in this production the parts of the clowns and the three main female characters had been divided up for a cast of nine.
Speaking to director afterwards, she explained that she wanted to involve more of the society in the production, hence had split up the parts.
Unfortunately, the cast has been hit by illness during the run, and it is to their credit that they were able to take on extra roles on the day.  The leading man playing Richard Hannay was tremendous with excellent timing and line delivery throughout.  His facial expressions and physicality were a comic delight, communicating volumes.
The rest of the cast worked hard switching roles at a pace and performing great slapstick routines and changes of accent with confidence.  Together the cast created a very entertaining piece of theatre which grabbed the audience’s attention as soon the tabs opened and continued until the end of the play.
They were well supported by the creative team with some imaginative set pieces, well timed lighting and sound effects and a supportive director who not only took on a role but also stepped in with the rest of the cast to cover for a sick cast member.  All in all, this made for a very enjoyable night of entertainment.

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