Fast paced and frantic, The 39 Steps at Salisbury Playhouse is an exhilarating ride
FRANTIC, fast paced and fantastic fun, The 39 Steps at Salisbury Playhouse is an exhilarating ride, featuring a phenomenal cast of just four actors.
Inspired by the original 1915 novel by John Buchan, which led to the 1936 Alfred Hitchcock film, the story is one that has been adapted many times – resulting in radio plays, a TV series and a lengthy West End run.
The latest touring production is currently on stage at Salisbury Playhouse ahead of runs at Colchester and Bolton later in the Spring. It is based on the adaptation by Patrick Barlow and is directed by Ryan McBryde with staging by Libby Todd.
At the centre of the story is Richard Hannay, a handsome bachelor who is drawn into a sinister web of intrigue after a mysterious shooting in a London theatre.
In the chaos that ensues Richard ends up offering sanctuary to a beautiful woman called Annabella. But back at Richard’s home he learns that Annabella has uncovered the truth about a dangerous spy network who seem to be intent on stealing national secrets.
When Annabella is stabbed in the middle of the night, Richard realises he is in the frame for murder unless he can corroborate her story to prove his innocence.
From here on the show becomes a masterclass of physical theatre, comic timing and quick costume changes, as Richard shows the extreme lengths he will go to in order to outsmart the police and spies on his trail.
A presence in every scene of the two-hour show – Matteo Oxley delivers just the right blend of smooth charm and perfectly times humour as Richard, a dashing bachelor, who would likely be a fine 007 candidate.
Alongside him, Mei Mei MacLeod gives a fantastic performance in the part of his three love interests Annabelle, Pamela and Margaret.
The cast is completed by Danielle Bird and Phil Yarrow who zip between the roles of dozens of other characters. The pair are nothing short of phenomenal as they demonstrate an incredible ability to switch accents, costumes and genders in the blink of an eye.
From the bumbling policemen to Scottish innkeepers, farmers and train passengers, the sheer speed of the changes, both costume and character; demonstrate incredible theatrical dexterity.
The chemistry between the cast is palpable, and they work together seamlessly, creating the impression that there could be a whole ensemble involved.
Staging designed by Libby Todd, brilliantly supports the fast-paced story as the cast appear and disappear through countless doors and panels. Meanwhile props were frantically transformed and costumes rapidly changed adding another level of humour.
The 39 Steps at Salisbury Playhouse is a highly entertaining show full of energy and humour, without a dull moment. Buckle up and see it at Salisbury Playhouse until Saturday 8th March. For information and tickets visit www.wiltshirecreative.co.uk
