The 39 Steps The Regent Theatre, Hanley

THIS light-hearted comedy adaptation of John Buchan's classic novel The 39 Steps came alive at The Regent Theatre.

It is a very clever and inventive production of the spy thriller and boasting a total cast of just four actors with over 100 supporting roles to play, it's little wonder it has won numerous awards.

It is an endearing piece of nostalgia and theatrical slapstick that should not be missed.

Set in the golden age of the 1930s, the story is of Richard Hannay – played by Dugald Bruce-Lockhart – a stiff upper lip hero who learns too much about a secret spy ring.

He is later forced to go on the run after the femme fatale, the charismatic Katherine Kingsley, is murdered in his apartment.

The quartet was simply sensational. A very talented bunch to carry off so many roles with ease, and the timings couldn't have been more spot on. For me, Richard Braine and Dan Starkey stole the show with their skilful portrayals of just about everyone, from police officers to a milkman, a political speaker, and varying inhabitants of Scotland with an array of accents that were impeccable.

To the amusement of the audience, an unidentifiable fifth member of the cast makes a guest appearance, or should I say their hand does, through the curtain with a gun, much to the bewilderment of the actors.

Although I've never seen any of the three film adaptations and knew only the basic premise of the novel, even I recognised the cheeky nod to the most notable version by Alfred Hitchcock and the effective use of ladders to represent the Forth Bridge, while chairs were put together to seamlessly construct a car.

Some scenes worked better than others and I felt that perhaps it went on a little longer than necessary, as parts of it could have easily been cut without spoiling the plot.

However, overall it was a thoroughly enjoyable show that is deserving of its rave reviews. Spies, sleuths and spoofs – what more could you ask for on a chilly winter's evening?

The 39 Steps is on at The Regent Theatre in Hanley until Saturday.

For tickets and information call the box office on 08448 717649.

Kelly Edgington