HTC Wraps Season with “The 39 Steps”
Opening May 21 at Quogue Community Hall
With a cast of four actors playing dozens of eccentric characters, the Hampton Theatre Company will present the perfect blend of comedy and mystery in “The 39 Steps,” beginning May 21 at Quogue Community Hall, with performances continuing through June 7.
Mixing mystery, espionage, romance, and comedy, “The 39 Steps” follows the unlikely adventures of Richard Hannay, an ordinary man swept into a fast-moving web of intrigue after meeting a mysterious woman with a dangerous secret. Soon accused of murder and pursued by both the police and a shadowy spy ring, Hannay must race across the country to clear his name and uncover the truth behind “The 39 Steps.”
The inventive stage thriller was adapted by Patrick Barlow from the novel by John Buchan, from the movie by Alfred Hitchcock, and from an original concept by Simon Corble and Nobby Dimon, transforming the classic tale into a whirlwind theatrical experience packed with quick changes, physical comedy, and ingenious stagecraft.
Earlier productions of “The 39 Steps” have earned widespread critical praise for their clever theatricality and irresistible comic energy. Reviewers have celebrated the play’s blend of suspense and spoof, noting its rapid-fire pace, inventive staging, and the virtuosity required of a small cast portraying dozens of characters. The show has become a favorite with audiences and critics alike for its ability to combine Hitchcock-style thrills with affectionate parody and nonstop laughter.
Playwright Patrick Barlow is widely known for his imaginative comic writing and for reshaping classic material into boldly theatrical entertainment. With “The 39 Steps,” he expanded on the original concept created by Simon Corble and Nobby Dimon, whose inventive approach first reimagined the John Buchan novel for the stage. Together, their contributions helped create a unique theatrical work that has enjoyed international success for its wit, ingenuity, and playful homage to both the novel and Alfred Hitchcock’s celebrated film adaptation.
Directed by Catherine Clyne (HTC’s “Boeing-Boeing” in 2025) the cast features one HTC veteran and three newcomers to the Quogue stage. Eric Clavell, who first appeared in Quogue in the 2010 production of “Mauritius,” plays multiple roles as Clown 1. Making their debut in Quogue are Adam Mosebach as Richard Hannay; Kevin Clyne in multiple roles as Clown 2, and Anna Tatishvili as Annabella Schmidt, Margaret, and Pamela.
Performance times are Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings at 7 p.m., with Sunday matinees at 2:30 p.m. There will also be an additional 2:30 p.m. matinee on Saturday, June 6. Two talkbacks with audience members will be offered immediately following the 7 p.m. performances on Friday, May 29, and Friday, June 5.
Tickets are available by visiting Hamptontheatre.org or by calling 631-653-8955.