As a connoisseur of suspense and the macabre, I approached this production ever aware of the delicate balance required to maintain the tension of the original while infusing it with comedic verve. To my delight, this production of The 39 Steps from the inimitable Patrick Barlow achieved this balance and surpassed expectations, delivering an evening of theatrical brilliance.
The play opens with the enigmatic Richard Hannay, portrayed with a masterful blend of gravitas and wit. The faux tension is palpable, drawing the audience into a web of intrigue reminiscent of the original Hitchcockian atmosphere. The seamless integration of comedy sets this production apart. The cast’s comedic timing is impeccable, each line delivered with precision, each gesture calculated to elicit laughter without ever undermining the suspense. Supported by the ingenious use of staging. The four actors, in a dazzling display of versatility, play more than 100 characters in total and manipulate the space with such creativity that the fourth wall seems to dissolve before our eyes. This playful engagement with theatrical conventions transforms the stage into a dynamic landscape, drawing the audience into the heart of the action. The staging is a warm parody, a knowing nod to the artifice of theatre that both celebrates and subverts traditional norms.
This production revels in its own theatricality, evident in the delightful array of accents and costumes. The cast navigates a cornucopia of regional dialects with a finesse that brings to mind the comedic charm of “Allo Allo.” Each accent is a delight, adding layers of humor and character that enrich the narrative. The costumes capturing the essence of each character with a flair that supports the play’s quality while allowing the actors to indulge in moments of delightful absurdity. These elements work in concert to create an atmosphere of playful sophistication, where the audience is invited to share in the joke.
The lighting and soundscape deserve special mention, they’re instrumental in maintaining the narrative’s momentum. The use of lighting to shift the pace and mood is masterful, guiding the audience through the story’s twists and turns with an almost cinematic precision. Shadows lengthen, lights flicker, dancers cavort, and suddenly we are transported from a bustling train to a desolate moor, the atmosphere thick with suspense. There is a lovely shadow puppet interlude where Hitchcock’s famous silhouette makes a cameo appearance. Nice touch! The soundscape, too, is a triumph, enhancing each scene with auditory cues that heighten tension and underscore the comedic beats. It is a symphony of light and sound that breathes life into the narrative.
Patrick Barlow’s adaptation of “The 39 Steps” effortlessly combines the elements of suspense and comedy with aplomb. The script is a testament to his skill, maintaining the core tensions of Hitchcock’s original while injecting a buoyant sense of fun. The pacing is brisk, the transitions seamless, and the dialogue sharp, creating a tapestry of intrigue and humor that is compelling.
Full list of cast and creatives here:
This production aims to be more than just a play; it wants to be an experience. The actors’ interactions with the audience, their knowing glances, and the occasional breaking of the fourth wall create a sense of camaraderie that is engaging. The audience is drawn into the very fabric of the narrative, becoming co-conspirators in the unfolding drama. The staging of a theatre within a theatre is both meta and great fun.
This production of “The 39 Steps” is a triumph of theatrical ingenuity. It captures the essence of Hitchcock’s suspenseful thriller while infusing it with a comedic charm that is both refreshing and irresistible. The cast’s performances are spectacular, the staging is innovative, and the use of lighting and sound is atmospheric and evocative.
If you seek an evening of suspense, laughter, and sheer theatrical delight, then this production that not only honors the legacy of Hitchcock but reimagines it with a joyous, irreverent spirit that is sure to leave you spellbound.
So, take a step into the theatre Royal Brighton , and prepare to be captivated by a night of unparalleled entertainment.
Until Sat 20th July
For more info or to book tickets see the Theatre Royal website here
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