The 39 Steps

This May, Seven Ages Theatricals will be putting on a production of The 39 Steps by Patrick Barlow. This show began as a 1915 adventure novel by John Buchan, which was then adapted for film by Alfred Hitchcock in 1935, and finally adapted for the stage in 2005. Seven Ages will bring this slapstick spy thriller to life with cartoonish gags and a rapid-fire comedic style parodying the classic spy thriller genre.

The story follows Richard Hannay, an Englishman who becomes embroiled in a conspiracy where foreign agents attempt to steal away classified information vital to Britain’s national security. Framed for murder and on the run, Hannay must find a way to expose the conspiracy and clear his name on a journey that takes him throughout England and Scotland. Time is short for Hannay, and trust is in even shorter supply.

This farcical adaptation utilizes a blend of sincere overacting and dry sarcasm to deliver laughs as Hannay interacts with dozens of characters, played by only three other actors. Supporting actors of the show, known as “The Clowns,” combine swift costume changes with diverse voices and accents to portray the multiple characters that cross Hannay’s path. Scene changes also come at a rapid pace, requiring the creative and clever use of props, costumes, and set pieces to maintain the pace of the show.

Performances will take place at Jake’s, A Lakeland Community located at 529 Ontario Avenue in Sheboygan on May 21-23 at 7:30pm and May 24 at 2:00pm. General admission tickets may be purchased in advance at sevenagestheatricals.com.

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Host or Publisher Kate Calvano