The 39 Steps - Adapted by Patrick Barlow Directed for Blackmore Players by Alf Currey A fastpaced, fouractor spoof of Hitchcocks classic thriller Richard Hannay, an ordinary man craving a bit of excitement, gets far more than he bargained for when a mysterious woman named Annabella Schmidt bursts into his London flat claiming to be a spy. By morning shes dead, Hannay is framed for her murder, and hes forced to flee for his life. Determined to clear his name, Hannay follows her only clue a reference to The 39 Steps which launches him into a whirlwind chase across Scotland. Along the way he encounters a parade of eccentric characters, all played by just two actors who switch roles at breakneck speed. From suspicious farmers to overthetop villains, every encounter pushes Hannay deeper into a conspiracy to smuggle British military secrets out of the country. Complicating matters further is Pamela, a sharpwitted woman who initially wants nothing to do with him but becomes reluctantly entangled in his escape. Handcuffed together, they stumble through trains, moors, hotels, and improbable disguises as the mystery unravels. The adventure culminates in a showdown with the seemingly respectable Professor Jordan the mastermind behind the spy ring and a final twist involving the unforgettable Mr. Memory. Packed with physical comedy, rapid costume changes, and selfaware theatrical gags, The 39 Steps transforms a classic spy thriller into a riotous, highenergy farce that celebrates the magic of live performance. This amateur production of The 39 Steps is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd. on behalf of Samuel French Ltd. www.concordtheatricals.co.uk [//www.concordtheatricals.co.uk]and by Arrangement with Fiery Angel Limited. Adapted by Patrick Barlow, from the novel by John Buchan, from the movie by Alfred Hitchcock. Licensed by ITV Global Entertainment Limited and an original concept by Simon Corble and Nobby Dimon.