Imagine Alfred Hitchcock’s classic spy thriller turned into a whirlwind of Monty Python-esque mayhem, and you’ve got The 39 Steps – the Olivier and Tony Award-winning comedy that has dazzled more than three million fans across 39 countries.
Now, this wildly inventive production is heading to Australia with a fresh reimagining and an all-star cast, including Lisa McCune, Ian Stenlake, and the legendary Umbilical Brothers – David Collins and Shane Dundas.
Directed by acclaimed theatre-maker Damien Ryan, The 39 Steps is a breakneck, laugh-out-loud romp that sees four fearless actors play a staggering 130 roles in just 100 minutes.
Follow the dashing but hapless Richard Hannay as he’s framed for murder, thrust into a world of spies, and forced to outrun both the law and a parade of absurdly escalating mishaps. With rapid-fire costume changes, ingenious staging, and boundless energy, this production is a masterclass in theatrical chaos.
“We have always loved the stage adaptation of The 39 Steps,” say producers Neil Gooding and Alex Woodward. “It’s an inventive, laugh-out-loud tour de force, and we’re thrilled to bring it to Australia with such an incredible cast.”
Director Damien Ryan adds, “It’s funny, suspenseful, and celebrates everything theatre can do. At its heart, it’s about an ordinary man caught in an extraordinary adventure—one that’s as much about self-discovery as it is about espionage and romance.”
The national tour kicks off at Sydney Opera House (8 August), before heading to Newcastle (2 September), Melbourne’s Comedy Theatre (10 September), and Brisbane’s QPAC (7 October). Tickets are on presale now, with general public sales in Melbourne starting 28 May.
Don’t miss this turbo-charged comedy thriller—a dazzling blend of wit, suspense, and sheer theatrical brilliance. Book now at www.the39steps.com.au.
