The hit comedy stage adaptation of John Buchan’s The 39 Steps has extended its run at the Criterion theatre by four months, to 7 February 2009.
The news follows last week’s announcement that the Broadway production of the show has been nominated for six Tony Awards, including Best Play.
Patrick Barlow’s tongue-in-cheek treatment of Buchan’s novel recreates every scene from Alfred Hitchcock’s 1935 film version, with just four cast members playing a plethora of roles. The plot centres on bequiffed gentleman Richard Hannay, whose dull life in London is spiced up when a mysterious woman is murdered in his apartment. Armed with a strange map, Hannay flees to Scotland in search of the 39 Steps, which may be the only way to clear his name. Along the way, he is chased on the Flying Scotsman, escapes from the Forth Bridge and meets a host of eccentric characters.
Maria Aitken directs the cast, which currently comprises Jo Stone-Fewings, Josefina Gabrielle, Martyn Ellis and original cast member Simon Gregor.
After originating at West Yorkshire Playhouse, the show received a London premiere at the Tricycle theatre, before opening in the West End in September 2006. It went on to win the 2007 Best New Comedy Laurence Olivier Award.
Including the Tony-nominated Broadway production, The 39 Steps has now opened in 20 countries around the world.
CB