39 Steps is a comedic spoof of a 1915 book called The Thirty-Nine Steps by John Buchan and a 1935 film adaptation, directed by Alfred Hitchcock. The play features a cast of four superb actors, whose ability to play 150 characters within a span of roughly two hours is spellbinding. The tale begins as the male lead, Richard Hannay (Robert Petkoff) finds himself unhappy and unstimulated. He ventures out to a London theater, seeking entertainment by observing “Mr. Memory,” an act performed by two clowns (Billy Carter and Cameron Pow). There he meets the mysterious Annabella Schmidt (Brittany Vicars), a spy who is avoiding murderers desperately chasing her. She seeks protection at Mr. Hannay’s apartment, but is murdered despite her efforts. Alone with a dead stranger’s body, Mr. Hannay finds himself in quite a predicament. He is aware that law enforcement will find his role in Annabella’s death suspicious, since his account is implausible from an objective point of view. He decides to desert the body, and the remainder of the play chronicles hilarious adventures and odd encounters as his life on the run unfolds.

The actors’ talent drives the play, as all four individuals possess an incredible knack for comedic timing. Jokes often reference Alfred Hitchcock’s other works, as well as the demanding multitasking required of the small acting team. The bizarre nature of the characters’ interactions is exceedingly riveting, and the theater roars with laughter throughout the performance. Maria Aitken’s work as the director is impressive, and is especially evident through the well-structured nature of the play. The adaptor, Patrick Barlow, seamlessly translates the book and movie, both dramatic classics, into a humorous modern interpretation. Peter McKintosh also deserves recognition for the engaging scenic and costume design. Many of the outfits seem true to the time period, and actors even find themselves wearing two outfits at once to represent multiple characters. The scenic design goes hand-in-hand with Kevin Adams’s work on lighting, as multiple scenes involve puppets and experimental projections of shadows onto a white cloth backdrop. These artistic choices poke fun at the drama of the play’s namesake, often highlighting chase scenes where Mr. Hannay masterfully evades policemen and runs through streams and valleys. All of the play’s contributors weave their work together to create a fantastic and meaningful piece. Go see 39 Steps! I guarantee it’ll be a delightful experience.

39 Steps is playing at Union Square Theater on East 17th Street. Get tickets for $5 through High 5 Tickets to the Arts.