REVIEW - THE 39 STEPS | OCTAGON THEATRE BOLTON | 17/04/2025

Originally penned by John Buchan in 1915 and famously adapted for the screen by Alfred Hitchcock in 1935, The 39 Steps has enjoyed a rich history across page, screen and stage. Patrick Barlow’s stage version, a fast-paced and farcical re-imagining of the spy thriller, first premiered in the early 2000s and quickly became a West End hit, scooping up Olivier and Tony Awards for its unique blend of suspense and slapstick. Now, this whirlwind comedy returns in a co-production between Octagon Theatre Bolton, Wiltshire Creative, and Mercury Theatre Colchester. Directed by Ryan McBryde, this latest staging promises theatrical flair, cinematic nods, and a cast of four tackling over 150 characters in an evening of pure, high-energy entertainment.

When the dashing yet unassuming Richard Hannay finds himself at the centre of a deadly espionage plot, his quiet London life is thrown into utter chaos. After a mysterious woman is murdered in his flat, Hannay becomes the prime suspect and is forced to go on the run. What follows is a madcap dash across the country, as he attempts to clear his name, unravel a top-secret conspiracy, and uncover the meaning behind the cryptic phrase “The 39 Steps.” Along the way, Hannay encounters a colourful cast of characters—from sinister spies and bumbling policemen to eccentric Scottish innkeepers and a reluctant romantic interest, Pamela, who may or may not trust him.

The plot is a loving parody of Hitchcock’s 1935 film, but it plays fast and loose with the source material, leaning heavily into farce and physical comedy. With just four actors performing a wide variety of roles, the story unfolds with lightning speed and theatrical ingenuity, using minimal props, quick costume changes, and clever staging to bring the entire world of the play to life. It’s a whirlwind of mistaken identities, near misses, and tongue-in-cheek suspense, all delivered with a healthy dose of knowing humour.

Libby Todd’s set is a clever, compact marvel of theatrical invention—panels, trapdoors, and multi-level platforms make up a playground for chaos. From a transforming train carriage to a shadowy Highland inn, the transitions are fluid and full of surprises. Her costumes, particularly for the two “clown” characters, are pivotal to the show’s rapid character-swapping and visual gags. Simisola Majekodunmi’s lighting design adds texture and atmosphere (a plane scene midair is hilariously dramatic), while Tom Marshall’s subtle sound cues anchor the shifting settings. Together, the design elements ensure the frenetic pace never descends into confusion.

With just four cast members driving the entire production, the performances are a triumph of versatility and energy. Mateo Oxley as Richard Hannay, striking the perfect balance between dashing hero and bewildered everyman. His comic timing is razor-sharp, and he carries the show with charisma and charm.

Mei Mei Macleod shines as all three of Hannay’s love interests, delivering each character with flair and a knowing wink. Her ability to flip between accents and attitudes adds an extra layer of fun to the whirlwind plot.

Phil Yarrow and Danielle Bird are a dynamic duo, responsible for much of the show’s madcap humour. They swap characters faster than you can blink – from innkeepers to secret agents to Scottish farmers – and keep the energy high throughout. Their physical comedy and vocal dexterity are genuinely impressive..

The 39 Steps is a wonderfully witty whirlwind that keeps you grinning from start to finish. Bursting with clever staging, quick-fire gags, and irresistible energy, it’s a brilliant blend of old-school theatricality and modern comic flair. The cast’s charisma and the production’s creativity make it an absolute treat for theatre lovers of all kinds.

A riotous roller-coaster of laughs and ingenuity – this is classic comedy theatre at its very best.

The 39 Steps is at The Octagon Theatre until Saturday 10th May 2025. Tickets are available for purchase through the link provided below.

Click Me

Photo Credit - Alastair Muir

*Our tickets for this show were kindly gifted in exchange for an honest review.