Mix a Hitchcock masterpiece with a juicy spy novel, (add a dash of Monty Python) and you have The 39 Steps, a fast-paced whodunit for anyone who loves the magic of theatre!
In “The 39 Steps”, a man with a boring life meets a woman with a thick accent who says she’s a spy. When he takes her home, she is murdered. Soon, a mysterious organization called “The 39 Steps” is hot on the man’s trail in a nationwide manhunt that climaxes in a death-defying finale!
Richard Hannay – 20’s – 50’s. Male/Male identifying character. Any race or ethnicity. One half of the leading duo who possesses the Hitchcock-esque suave, dashing, debonaire qualities. He is an artistic soul, a rebel, and an everyman capable of unlocking a secret heart filled with will and determination, cunning and vulnerability. Actor must be an adept physical comedian, a great listener and responder, and ensemble member.
Annabella/Pamela/Margaret – 20’s – 50’s. Female/Female identifying character. Any race or ethnicity. One half of the leading duo who possesses physical, emotional, and comedic prowess. Actor will play all three roles below, with the possibility of stepping into a clown role or two.
• Annabella: a brilliant but marked Russian woman who is on the run from spies and killed at their hand. Russian accent preferred.
• Pamela: a quintessential Hitchcock-esqe leading lady. She is bold, emotionally, and intellectually intelligent, powerful, and fashionable. English accent required.
• Margaret: a small-town farm worker married off to a cruel man; she is eager to see the world, to help Richard out when he stumbles upon her farm and is willing to risk the consequences from her abusive husband in following her heart and gut. Scottish accent required. 20-30, played by same actress, love interest, secret agent, Scottish wife, also involved in espionage and intrigue.
Clown #1 & Clown #2 – Any age. Any gender, race, or ethnicity. Vivacious, debonair, and with substantial authority, the clowns expertly execute 150+ roles with Olympian prowess and skillful comedic timing. Versatility with European accents is a plus. Must be able to lift certain set pieces and move adroitly throughout stage and between roles.
