By SDCN Editor
Carlsbad, CA—New Village Arts will present its comedic royalty, “The 39 Steps,” a parody play adapted by Patrick Barlow, from the novel by John Buchan and the movie by Alfred Hitchcock.
“The 39 Steps” will be directed by Dr. AJ Knox. This will be the first play presented in 2024 on the Ray Charles Stage in the Conrad Prebys Theatre at the Dea Hurston New Village Arts Center, after the theatre’s critically acclaimed production of the musical “Fun Home.”
The play will run from April 13 to May 12 with previews from April 5 to 12, The Opening Night reception will be held on April 13.
“The 39 Steps” is a thrilling and comedic play that follows the misadventures of Richard Hannay. Set against the backdrop of pre-World War II Britain, the story begins when Hannay becomes inadvertently entangled in a web of espionage after a mysterious woman is murdered in his apartment. Falsely accused of the crime, Hannay goes on the run to clear his name and unravel a complex conspiracy known as “The 39 Steps.” The show unfolds as a fast-paced and hilarious spy caper, featuring a multitude of eccentric characters, quick costume changes, and clever theatrical techniques. As Hannay races against time, he encounters various obstacles and quirky individuals, leading to a series of comical and suspenseful situations.
With its witty dialogue, clever staging, and homage to Hitchcock’s cinematic style, “The 39 Steps” provides a unique and entertaining theatrical experience that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats while eliciting laughter.
The esteemed Dr. AJ Knox, New Village Arts’ resident comedic director is guiding the theatrical spectacle. Dr. Knox’s extensive contribution to the theatre’s legacy, from his current role as board president to his directorial success with the 2023 summer production of “Singin In The Rain,” as well as his compelling on-stage portrayal of Father Flynn in “Doubt” last year, positions him as a beacon of creativity. Knox shares his anticipation for this production, stating,
“I’ve worked with NVA for nearly a decade in all sorts of roles: Marketing director, actor, playwright, director, and now as the president of the board. I love what NVA brings to our community and the San Diego arts community as a whole, and I know we’re all in need of a good belly laugh these days. And ‘”The 39 Steps”’ isn’t just goofy fun (I mean, it definitely is that)–it’s also got a lot of heart and joy. I can’t wait for audiences to join us,” Dr. Knox stated in a news release.
Knox has brought together a plethora of comedic knowledge to this production. Dallas McLaughlin, award-winning actor, writer, and comedian, and Erica Marie Weisz, a Portuguese San Diego native, lead the cast as Hannay and his romantic counterparts, Annabella, Margaret, and Pamela. McLaughlin is no stranger to the theatre’s stage; he previously appeared in Jez Butterworth’s “The Ferryman,” as well as “The Servant of Two Masters,” “American Hero,” and “Stage Kiss.” Weisz makes her New Village Arts debut in “The 39 Steps”, being known for various performances across town including at Cygnet Theatre,
“I’ve worked with NVA most recently on the record-breaking production of “The Ferryman”, and it’s stayed right in line with every show I’ve worked on at NVA – that it’s an incredible experience full of talented people in one of the most lovely theatres on the West Coast,” McLaughlin stated. “I consider NVA to be an artistic home for me and can’t wait to come home for “The 39 Steps”! The cast for this show is next level, and there is no doubt you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better time at the theater this Spring!’
Performance days and times are Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday matinees at 2 p.m., Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. Tickets range from $30 to $60.
New Village Arts is located at 2787 State Street in Carlsbad. Patrons can call “(760) 433-3245, or visit www.newvillagearts.org.
