THE FRONT ROW

The 39 Steps, currently playing at the York Grand Opera House until 27th July, is a genuine theatrical masterpiece that blends wit, charm, and hilarity into an unforgettable performance.

As part of a stellar season featuring productions of School of Rock The Musical, The Rocky Horror Show, and Only Fools and Horses the Musical, this show marks its triumphant return to UK stages after an eight-year hiatus. Since its debut in Yorkshire in 2005, this adaptation has captivated audiences in 39 countries, delighting over 3 million people worldwide.

I haven’t seen The 39 Steps in over ten years, but remember it being one of the shows that got me into theatre in my youth due to how multi-layered and complex it is, whilst holding a level of simplicity for the audience. It’s a masterclass in traditional theatre, using inventive stagecraft that other mediums simply can’t replicate. The steam train sequence, for instance, is a stroke of genius that has laughter rippling through the Grand Opera House crowd. On another level, the production is a testament to comedic timing and versatility, with four actors bringing an astonishing 139 characters to life. This feat is both mind-boggling and entertaining, showcasing the remarkable talents of the cast.

Tom Byrne (Bridgerton, The Crown) delivers an almost perfect performance as Richard Hannay, the dashing protagonist whose life takes a thrilling turn when a woman is murdered in his home. His consistent presence grounds the whirlwind of action around him. Safeena Ladha impresses with her portrayal of three distinct women who cross Hannay’s path, each character crafted with nuance and wit and her delivery is spot in in this performance.

Eugene McCoy and Maddie Rice, as ‘Clown 1’ and ‘Clown 2’, are the true stars of the show. Their ability to switch between characters at breakneck speed, often within the same scene, is what makes the art of theatre so unique compared to a Netflix show, or a podcast which seem to be the go-to form of entertainment in 2024. Their comic brilliance and audience engagement are central to the show’s charm.

Eugene McCoy’s jaw-dropping performance in his roles, from Scottish farmers to haughty aristocrats, is a particular highlight. His ability to give each character a distinct personality and charm is nothing short of extraordinary. Tom Byrne shines in the lead role, delivering an electrifying performance that fills the venue with energy and charisma.

As the cast arrived in York, they reflected on past times in the city. They enjoyed a trip to the National Railway Museum joining many other excited visitors.  Tom Byrne, who plays Richard Hannay, remembers York from his childhood and has been looking forward to returning to the city. 

Byrne says: “One of the more exciting memories from my childhood was visiting York with my school. I remember the beautiful ancient cobbled streets, the shambles and the river”.

McCoy, who is also thrilled to be back in York says: “It’s wonderful to be back again after completing my work experience in the city when I was just 15. It’s so nice to be back in my home county of North Yorkshire where there are some of the loveliest people in the country.”

The production values are superb also. Ian Scott’s evocative lighting creates the perfect atmosphere, Mic Pool’s dynamic sound design adds depth and excitement, and Peter McKintosh’s set and costume designs cleverly facilitate the rapid character changes. The minimalist yet effective costumes hint at characters’ identities, allowing the actors to transition seamlessly. Performing without microphones, the cast demonstrates great vocal projection, perfectly suited to the acoustics of the Grand Opera House.

Patrick Barlow’s adaptation really has lost none of its sparkle almost 20 years since its debut at the West Yorkshire Playhouse. The show’s unique blend of farce, thriller, and homage to Alfred Hitchcock’s 1935 film remains as fresh and engaging as ever. The playful nods to Hitchcock’s cinematic style, combined with a Monty Python-esque sense of humour, make for a thoroughly entertaining experience.

The 39 Steps at York Grand Opera House is a must-see. It’s a brilliant display of theatrical innovation, brought to life by a supremely talented cast whose performances are both captivating and hilarious. Don’t miss this chance to witness a true gem of the theatre, a show that promises laughter, excitement, and an unforgettable evening.

Tickets available for each night from 24-27th July: https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/the-39-steps/grand-opera-house-york/