The 39 Steps

The Alexandra Theatre

Birmingham

4th - 8th June 2024

Fiery Angel present 'The 39 Steps,' adapted by Patrick Barlow, from an original concept by Simon Corble and Nobby Dimon.

The classic John Buchan novel, The 39 Steps has been transformed into four notable film adaptations in which Robert Donat starred in 1935 and directed by Alfred Hitchcock. This is the most famous and widely regarded version. Kenneth More starred as Richard Hannay in 1959, directed by Ralph Thomas. 1978 and Robert Powell featured in Donna Sharp's version and more recently in 2008 the TV movie directed by James Hawes. These adaptations vary in their faithfulness to the original novel and in their interpretation of the story.

'The 39 Steps' is a classic adventure novel by John Buchan, first published in 1915. The story follows Richard Hannay, a man who becomes embroiled in an espionage plot after meeting a mysterious American who claims to be on the run from foreign spies. Shortly after this meeting, the American is murdered in Hannay's apartment, and Hannay finds himself accused of the crime. To clear his name and stop a nefarious plot, Hannay goes on the run across Scotland. As he evades both the police and the spies, he unravels a conspiracy involving a German spy ring known as 'The Thirty-Nine Steps,' which is planning to steal British military secrets on the eve of World War I. The novel is known for its fast-paced narrative, suspenseful chase scenes, and the theme of an ordinary man caught up in extraordinary circumstances.

The stage play 'The 39 Steps' is a comedic adaptation of John Buchan's novel and Alfred Hitchcock's 1935 film. It combines the thrilling espionage plot with a fast-paced, humorous twist. The play follows the story of Richard Hannay, a bored Londoner who inadvertently becomes a fugitive after a mysterious woman named Annabella Schmidt, who claims to be a spy, is murdered in his apartment. To clear his name and thwart a sinister plot, Hannay embarks on a frantic journey across Britain. Along the way, he encounters a variety of characters, chases, and escapes, all performed by a cast of just four actors. One actor plays Hannay, while the other three actors portray an array of gcharacters, including heroes, villains, and even inanimate objects.

A word of caution from the onset the production contains scenes of flashing lights, strobe lights, haze and smoke, as well as sudden loud noises!

The play's clever use of minimal props, quick costume changes, and imaginative staging creates a dynamic and entertaining theatrical experience, blending suspense, romance, and a hearty dose of comedy. 'The 39 Steps' delights audiences with its wit, inventive storytelling, and affectionate parody of the classic spy thriller genre.

The stage play 'The 39 Steps' is widely praised for its inventive and entertaining approach to storytelling and imaginative staging, creating a dynamic and engaging theatrical experience. The play's humour and wit are standout features, often incorporating physical comedy and parody to great effect. Critics and audiences alike will appreciate the versatility and talent of the cast, especially the three actors who portray a collective of characters, showcasing their ability to switch roles seamlessly and bring a variety of personas to life. The play's ability to blend suspense, romance, and comedy, while affectionately parodying the classic spy thriller genre, makes it a unique and enjoyable production. Overall, 'The 39 Steps' is celebrated for its creativity, humour, and theatrical ingenuity.

Four Actors. Countless Characters. One Hilarious Adventure! A five star ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ performance and definite must see for fans of this classic novel, 'The 39 Steps.'

'The 39 Steps' is at The Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham until the 8th June.