REVIEW: St. Dunstan's 'The 39 Steps' Is Full of Deep-Belly Laughs
This adaption of Hitchcock's classic film and the original book is a great way to kick-off St. Dunstan's 80th season.
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“The 39 Steps” - what are they? I can tell you what they aren’t, and that is a show to miss. If you like to laugh, deep belly laughs of pure delight, then “The 39 Steps,” now showing at St. Dunstans Theatre Guild of Cranbrook, is a must see!
This is the 80th season at the celebrated local theater, and what a way to kick it off. It was only a few short years after the founding of St. Dunstan's that Alfred Hitchcock directed the original “39 Steps.” This production is nothing like the movie. Oh, the story is similar. Richard Hannay, bored with his outlook, and with nothing to do, decides to take in a West End (London) show. There he meets Annabella Schmidt, who is soon murdered (insert musical sting here!). Soon after that, a mysterious organization is hot on his trail, and you will be asking yourself, along with Richard Hannay – what are the 39 steps?
Alan Canning, of Bloomfield Hills, expertly plays the rogue Hannay. Alan is the picture perfect straight man to the rest of the 150 characters appearing in this four person show. Not the least of which are played by Julie Spittle, whose facial expressions and multiple accents are incredible to behold. John Rutherford’s comedic asides and multiple characterizations are in perfect harmony with his fellow clown, Jake Zinke, who appears to be a natural born comedian. His timing, to borrow from the vernacular, is spot on. Each of them will have you laughing non stop in this zany thriller.
Director Kathleen Lietz’s organizational skills were in evidence as she brought together the combined talents of a small but mighty cast. Also of note is a uniquely creative set design by Leslie Ann Pilling (Presence II Productions) of Bloomfield Hills. You don’t want to miss “The 39 Steps,” an evening of pure theatrical entertainment.
There are still plenty of chances to see it before it closes on October 29. Get your tickets online or by calling 1-888-71-TICKETS. Tickets are $17.75 and $15.75 for students and seniors.
This review was submitted by Patch reader and theater buff Chris Steinmayer, who grew up in Bloomfield Township and graduated from Lahser High School. He currently lives in Oak Park.
