Adapted by Patrick Barlow
From the novel by John Buchan
Directed by John Heavey
Nine Performance Dates: March 6, 7, 8, 13, 14, 15, 20, 21, 22, 2026
Evening shows at 7:30pm | Sunday matinees at 2:00pm
Description
The 39 Steps is a fast-paced, slapstick comedy thriller where an ordinary man, Richard Hannay, is framed for murder and must go on the run to stop a spy ring from stealing vital British military secrets. The humor derives from the entire story being performed by a small cast who play over 150 characters, often making rapid costume and character changes. One actor plays the hero, Richard Hannay; an actress plays the three women with whom he has romantic entanglements; other actors play every other character in the show, each occasionally playing multiple characters at once. Thus Alfred Hitchcock film’s serious spy story is given a comedic, zany twist.
Although The 39 Steps was originally produced with just four actors, the MAC production’s casting will be flexible with regard to gender and doubling, even tripling of roles. The two exceptions are that Hannay will be played by one man throughout and Pamela and Annabella will be played by a single woman.
Auditions will be readings from selected scenes of The 39 Steps copies of which will be available upon request in December.
Principle Roles
Richard Hannay – Dapper, charming English gentleman. Suave, dashing, and debonair. Intelligent and resourceful. A touch full of himself. Maybe more than a touch. Large amount of physical comedy.
Anabella – The exotic secret agent who sends Hannay on his journey and on the run from spies. German accent. Could double with Pamela.
Margaret – A small town farmer’s wife who dreams of adventure beyond her everyday life. Shy, innocent, and kind.
Pamela – The leading lady to the end of the story. Witty, classy, and bold. Could double with Anabella.
Other
Roles that will probably be doubled even tripled.
Crofter – Margaret’s jealous husband who is very controlling of his wife. Brash, jealous, and skeptical.
Mr. Memory – A stage performer who has the ability to recall thousands of facts upon demand.
Compere – Mr. Memory’s emcee to his act. Loud, outgoing, performative.
Professor Jordon – The mysteriously mischievous professor who has the key to what the 39 Steps are.
Inspector Albright – Leading inspector and chasing after Hannay.
Clowns
In casting we are looking for versatile performers with a rich imagination who can make bold, physical choices.
More information: marionartcenter.org/events
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