Theatre Performs ’39 Steps’ at the Speed of Fun

Westmont theater offers “The 39 Steps,” a fast-paced murder mystery and international espionage plot, encompassing numerous characters played by just five actors Oct. 25-26 at 7:30 p.m., Oct. 31 at 9 p.m., Nov. 1-2 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 2 at 2 p.m., all in Porter Theatre. Purchase tickets, which cost $20 for general admission and $12 for students and seniors, through westmont.edu/boxoffice. 

The show features a riotous blend of virtuoso performances and wildly inventive stagecraft, according to director Mitchell Thomas. “’The 39 Steps’ lives in a universe of laughter, drama, sparkle, danger and joy, which I think audiences of all ages can appreciate and delight in,” he says.

The 1915 John Buchan novel inspired both the play, which Patrick Barlow adapted for the stage, and an Alfred Hitchcock film.

“I've been wanting to do a production with accents and dialects for quite a while, which ‘The 39 Steps’ has in abundance,” Thomas says. “The story and style of the show require broad comic timing, clown energy and vaudevillian energy throughout.”

Thomas has employed new costume designer Stacie Logue, who’s worked extensively with Opera Santa Barbara and Music Academy.  “With all the quick changes and raft of characters, we’re lucky to have such a pro at the helm of the costume world!” Thomas says.