Cast step up in ‘clever’ version of famous work
Four actors from Levin Little Theatre have managed to carry off a thriller of a play involving multiple characters, many requiring different accents.
The script demands that Richard Hannay (Jeremy Skerman) sticks to the lead character, but the three other members of the cast do well to take on more than one role.
Fellow actors Tracey Bentall, Declan Leahy and Taylor Salton deftly weave in and out of different personalities as the story line moves from kitchen conversations to train escapes.
Between them, Bentall, Leahy and Salton play everything from milkmen to policemen, housewives and spies. Some clever interaction by the cast keeps the audience engaged, providing some moments of pure hilarity.
The 39 Steps was adapted for stage by Patrick Barlow, from the novel by John Buchan, from the movie of Alfred Hitchcock. Its Levin showings represent the directing debut of local thespian Matthew Kilsby-Halliday, who has been involved with the theatre since he was a youngster.
The 39 Steps opened last Thursday night at Levin Little Theatre on Weraroa Rd, and continues tonight at 8pm, Saturday, April 9 at 8pm, and Sunday, April 10 at 2pm.
Online tickets at www.trybooking.co.nz/JMJ — please call Nicola Reeves on 063682123 if you have any problems. Prices: Adults $20, students $15.