39 Steps
The award winning 39 steps is based on the novel by John Buchan written in 1915 and the Hitchcock film from 1953. The dramatic story centres on a spy circle and the adventures of Richard as he tries to unveil the truth behind the events he appears to have stumbled across. The story unfolds with scenes of murder, disguises and intricate plots similar to those in Alfred Hitchcock’s classic film version of the novel. Although the film is often discussed as intense to the point of frightening, the theatre version is significantly easier going allowing the audience to enjoy the show.
Since its first opening in 1995 in the Yorkshire Playhouse it has seen great success. It was swiftly put on as a West End show. It is now performed internationally, including productions on Broadway, to great acclaim. The success of the performances includes the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Comedy and nominations in four Tony Awards in additional to winning two Tony Awards. The reopening of this cult class show in February 2009 has only added to the vast success of the show as ticket sales for the Criterion Theatre performance of 39 Steps regularly mean sell out shows.