The cast of The 39 Steps at Hale Center Theater Orem gives a polished, madcap performance that tips its hat to both the mystery thriller and slapstick comedy genres.
The 39 Steps is adapted by Patrick Barlow from the novel by John Buchan and is based on the Alfred Hitchcock film of the same name. It is the story of Richard Hannay, who is accused of murdering a stranger. While on the run from the law, he must stop spies from taking an important secret out of Britain.
The genius of the piece is that it is presented as a straight thriller but with only four actors playing nearly 40 characters. The comedy arises organically from the constant character switches, and an onstage Foley artist adds to the fun.
Hale Center Theater’s theatre-in-the-round setup is perfect for a show like this with its small cast and audience interactivity. Director Christopher Clark makes great use of the space and revels in the play’s inherent theatricality.
Richard Hannay is played by Blake Barlow, who has a number of regional and Off-Broadway credits. His experience comes through in his steady, slightly neurotic portrayal of the straight man.
The rest of the cast is rounded out by Kelly Hennessey, Carter Thompson and Jake Suazo (with Alex King as the Foley artist). Kudos to them for the attention to detail in their stances, facial expressions and voices. The many characters they played were brilliantly differentiated. Their accents were occasionally dropped, but that is a small quibble compared to how much they got right.
The 39 Steps continues through Feb. 11 and is nearly 90 percent sold out. Tickets are available by calling the box office at 801-226-8600 or online at haletheater.org.
