'Brilliantly inventive, laugh-out-loud funny and packed with theatrical surprises' - The 39 Steps promises to be a highlight of Derby Theatre's autumn season
Casting has been announced for a new production of The 39 Steps which will be presented at Derby Theatre.
This fast, funny and inventive comedy thriller races through daring escapes, clever disguises and unexpected twists taking audiences from the streets of London to the wild landscapes of Scotland. When the debonair Richard Hannay becomes entangled in a mysterious murder, he finds imself the prime suspect in a deadly conspiracy. With the police closing in and enemy agents on his trail, Hannay must flee to uncover the truth.
Co-produced by Derby Theatre and Hull Truck Theatre with Cal McCrystal (One Man, Two Guvnors) directing, this reimagining of The 39 Steps will run in Derby from September 29 to October 24, 2026.
Four actors play more than 130 characters in this stage adaptation of John Buchan’s classic novel and Alfred Hitchcock’s iconic film. Ryan Stanley takes on the role of Richard Hannay, Sophie Bloor plays the foreign spy Annabella, James Keningale and Kathryn Perkins are both cast in the parts of Clown. The cover is Tom Mitchell.
Cal McCrystal, said: “At a time when many actors are typecast, this production celebrates versatility and playfulness.
“I am delighted to be returning to Derby Theatre to direct Patrick Barlow’s brilliant play, The 39 Steps. I have a deep fondness for Derby Theatre as I first worked there as an actor in 1982, when I appeared in Happy As A Sandbag - my first job in repertory. I returned in 2003 to direct Joe Orton’s Loot, then Alan Bennett’s Kafka’s Dick in 2004 and Frank Marcus’s The Killing of Sister George starring Jenny Eclair in 2008.”
Sarah Brigham, artistic director and CEO at Derby Theatre said: “The 39 Steps is exactly the kind of theatre experience our audiences love: brilliantly inventive, laugh-out-loud funny and packed with theatrical surprises. It’s a perfect night out, combining Hitchcock’s classic thriller with irresistible comedy. I’m especially thrilled to welcome the acclaimed and award-winning director Cal McCrystal to bring this classic to life for our audiences.”
Following its run in Derby, The 39 Steps will transfer to Hull Truck Theatre where the play will be presented from October 21 to November 14, 2026.
The 39 Steps contains mild threat, moments of suspense, stylised violence and comic depictions of peril and carries a 10+ years age guidance.
Tickets to see the play at Derby Theatre cost from £22.50. Book online at https://derbytheatre.co.uk/event/39-steps