The 39 Steps at Sheffield Lyceum Review
DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW
Reviewed by Louise Edwards
Patrick Barlow’s adaptation of John Buchan’s classic spy thriller, ‘The 39 Steps’, this week graces the stage at Sheffield’s Lyceum Theatre with an electrifying blend of wit, suspense, and sheer theatrical ingenuity.
Set against the backdrop of pre-World War II Britain, ‘The 39 Steps’ follows the journey of Richard Hannay, an ordinary man who finds himself unwittingly embroiled in a thrilling conspiracy involving espionage, murder, and romance. Barlow’s adaptation stays true to the essence of Buchan’s novel, written in 1915, while infusing it with a delightful sense of humour and a touch of contemporary flair.
At the heart of the production is the virtuosic performance of the cast, led by a standout portrayal of Richard Hannay by the talented Tom Byrne. With charisma and charm in abundance, Byrne effortlessly embodies the role of the dashing yet hapless protagonist, navigating a series of increasingly absurd predicaments with comedic flair and a twinkle in his eye.
Safeena Ladha plays Annabella (and also Pamela and Margaret who we meet later in the play), who is found stabbed in the back at his London apartment after persuading him to put her up for the night. Before her murder, she gives him clues as to who may be behind it which sends him on a journey at a frenetic pace that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats
The brilliance of ‘The 39 Steps’ lies in its inventive staging and the ingenious use of minimalistic props and set design by Peter McIntosh. There is a cast of just four actors seamlessly transitioning between dozens of characters, particularly Eugene McCoy and Maddie Rice, from daring escapes atop speeding trains to suspenseful chases through the Scottish Highlands, each scene is brought to life with a theatricality that is both breath taking and hilarious.
One of the highlights of the production is its playful homage to the golden age of cinema, with clever references to classic films and iconic moments recreated with impeccable precision. Whether it’s a nod to Alfred Hitchcock’s masterful suspense or a tongue-in-cheek parody of Hollywood tropes, ‘The 39 Steps’ delights in paying homage to the art of storytelling in all its forms.
Complementing the superb performances and innovative staging is the evocative sound by Mic Pool and lighting design by Ian Scott, which adds an extra layer of depth and atmosphere to the production. From the haunting strains of a Scottish lament to the pulsating rhythm of a suspenseful chase, every sound cue and lighting effect is meticulously crafted to enhance the theatrical experience and transport audiences into the heart of the action.
In addition to its technical brilliance, ‘The 39 Steps’ is also a testament to the enduring power of laughter. With its sharp wit and clever wordplay, the production elicits uproarious laughter from start to finish, proving that even in the face of danger and intrigue, there’s always room for a good joke.
In conclusion, Patrick Barlow’s adaptation of ‘The 39 Steps’ is a theatrical tour de force that combines thrilling suspense with side-splitting comedy in a truly unforgettable evening of entertainment. From its stellar performances to its inventive staging and infectious sense of humour, this production is a must-see for theatregoers of all ages. So grab your tickets, hold onto your hats, and prepare for a wild ride through the world of espionage, intrigue, and hilarity.”
Rating: 4/5
Tickets cost from £15
The 39 Steps is on at Sheffield Lyceum until Saturday 4 May 2024
https://www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk/events/the-39-steps
For more information or to book tickets visit www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk or call the Box Office on 0114 249 6000
Sheffield Theatres, 55 Norfolk Street, Sheffield, S1 1DA