A man is seen running through the streets of Scotland, the police right on his tail. The government sees him as a wanted criminal, on the run from a murder. However, this man was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Beaumont Community Players presents “The 39 Steps,” which continues April 7, 8, 13, 14, and 15. Based on the book by John Buchan and the Alfred Hitchcock film of the same name, “The 39 Steps” is an action-packed mystery and humorous story about a man framed for a murder.
Three of the on-stage cast play multiple characters, which adds to excitement of the action.
Set in 1935, “The 39 Steps” focuses on Richard Hannay (Brandon Greer) who tries to clear his name after a mysterious woman, Annabella Schmidt (Alexandria Lewis) is murdered. Before her death, she gives him information on how she planned to steal vital British military information that, if revealed, would destroy the country. Along the way, he ends up meeting Margaret (Lewis) who helps him clear his name.
The cast is amazing and the play has a lot of physical comedy. There are several scenes with one-off characters who appear briefly, meaning the two actors (Anna Goss and David Hooker) who play all the peripheral characters are constantly switching voices and costumes. At one point, it involves throwing hats back and forth.
Greer is fantastic. He has a lot of golden moments throughout the play with his physical comedy and line delivery.
Lewis’ Margaret is charming and works as a great counterpart to Richard. They serve as a classic enemies-to-lovers story where it doesn’t seem like they would work, but as the story progresses, so does their relationship.
The ensemble is outstanding and each member gets plenty of opportunity to shine. The jokes come thick and fast and leave the audience sore cheeks from laughing.
The mystery pulls us in from the first few minutes. As Hannay uncovers the secrets, we feel we are assisting him in his discoveries. Just what are the 39 steps? Well, that’s something you’ll have to find out for yourself.
Showtimes are 7:30 p.m., April 7, 8, 13, 14 and 15, and 2 p.m., April 8.
Beaumont Community Players is located on 4155 Laurel Avenue. Tickets can be purchased at beaumontstages.com.