It’s no wonder this production is the longest running comedy in the West End and winner of major theatrical awards. The 39 Steps is theatre at its purest, without an extensive cast, expensive sets or bedazzling lighting design. And now, The Twelfth Night Theatre is set to show Brisbane just what can be achieved with a versatile cast, superbly choreographed performances, and good writing.
It’s a plot typical of any espionage film: Man meets mysterious woman, who reveals a plan to smuggle military secrets out of the country. When she is murdered in his apartment, our protagonist is the prime suspect. With the police and spies hot on his heels, he races to solve the mystery of the man with the missing finger. There’s planes, trains and automobiles, and a whole lot of laughs along the way.
A playful homage to the spy genre, The 39 Steps was adapted by Patrick Barlow from an original concept by Simon Corble and Nobby Dimon. Based on the 1935 Hitchcock film and novel by John Buchan, the production reels in some of its best laughs by exaggerating Hitchcock’s’ signature, moody style – right down to the silhouettes under streetlight.
Also amplified are the dramatic character types typical of the Hitchcock film: the wrongly accused protagonist, the European villain, the blond bombshell, and of course, the femme fatal. Incredibly, a talented cast of only four plays these key characters along with a plethora of minor ones. With the swiftest of spins or the change of a hat, these performers manage to weave multiple characters into each scene with hilarious results. Special mention must be made of Mr Memory, who goes on to also play a villain’s wife, a policeman and a hotel owner to name but a few. He draws obvious comparisons to comic genius Zach Galifianakis, bringing quirk and charisma to every character.
But while these cleverly executed scenes are a logistical feat, tightly choreographed and superbly executed, its also a playful delivery. The actors occasionally break from character with asides to the audience, allowing us to feel in on the joke. It’s a warm device and coupled with the fast pace and regular laughs, the audience is absorbed all the way to curtain close.
Already seen by over 3 million people in more than 60 countries, Brisbanites are in for a treat. A testament to talent over trimmings, The 39 Steps is solid theatre.
The 39 Steps
The Twelfth Night Theatre, Bowen Hills
21 – 26 October 2014
