39 STEPS IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION
Adapted by Patrick Barlow from John Buchan’s novel and Alfred Hitchcock’s 1935 film, The 39 Steps is a comedic thriller blending spy drama, physical comedy, and theatrical ingenuity. In the outrageous, hilarious spoof, now playing at CV Rep, Richard Hannay (Matthew Floyed Miller), a dashing Canadian visiting England, meets Annabella (Ashley Morton), a beautiful British spy. An enemy espionage ring is pursuing Annabella because she has incriminating information about the group, known as The 39 Steps. She shares this with Hannay while hiding in his flat overnight. In the morning, he finds that she has been murdered. Hannay flees the scene of the crime dressed as a milkman in pursuit of an alibi for Annabella’s murder with the police posse and members of the spy ring close behind. Hannay escapes the police posse by kissing the beautiful Pamela (also Morton) on a train to Scotland, hiding overnight in the home of an old farmer and his lusty young wife, Margaret (also Morton), and meets Professor Jordan, who is missing a finger and shoots at Hannay but misses. The wacky, slapstick plot continues this way until Hannay saves the day and, perhaps, England and the world.
Seasoned Broadway actor Jamie Torcellini’s direction of this production is a master class of precision and playfulness that blends rapid fire scene changes and physical comedy. Every moment is meticulously staged to heighten the humor and suspense and allows the cast to shine while keeping the audience on the edge of their seats.
Miller brings Hannay to life with charm, wit, and an impressive ability to navigate the chaos around him. As the steadfast hero, he balances a suave demeanor with moments of vulnerability and comedic charm serving as the perfect “straight” man amidst all of the play’s absurdity. He keeps us invested in Hannay’s journey and compliments the high energy antics of the ensemble.
