‘The 39 Steps’–A hilarious chaotic romp with Hitchcock

Kenneth Kelleher directs this production of “The 39 Steps” with a giggle and a gasp. Once the production starts it moves with an energy that keeps moving at a nonstop pace.
This creative handling of Patrick Barlow’s rendering of “The 39 Steps” will keep you laughing and alert throughout. The well cast murder/spy thriller moves at a quick clip, slips here and there but entertains and is beautifully offered by each artist playing multiple roles.
Main characters Caassidy Brown, Allison Rich, Mark Anderson Keith Pinto and Edward Hightower are masters of the art of outrages comedy and deliver delightful near perfect performances. They are a pleasure to watch. Their timing and delivery is almost flawless.
Barlow uses a broad brush, painting the four characters and their images of over 100 characters with over fifty costume changes that transform their persona with a flick of a hat, jacket or wig before your eyes. The timing is intricate and well handled by these pros.  
The cleaver use of minimum props is at times ingenious and adds to the hilarity of the production. For example, four large trunks and a bit of steam double as seats on a train and also act as the roof of the train. A bunch of old mismatched chairs and a podium create a getaway car. Movable doors and windows become ingenious props that tickle the funny bone and create a mental picture of what could possibly be next in this off the wall adventure that is done completely tongue in cheek with homage to Hitchcock. Black and white film clips of Hitchcock movies show up in background where applicable.
This is a truly blatant, inane parody of one of Hitchcock’s most recognized movies. Anyone who is familiar with Hitchcock’s 1935 spy thriller “The 39 Steps” that starred Robert Donat and Madeline Carroll, (anyone remember them?) is at this time wondering if I am writing about the same story. It is a outrages burlesque comedy twist that keeps the audience for the most part  giggling and groaning at the action and puns.
These actors are truly the hardest working group.  Their agility is at times amazing, especially Cassidy Brown’s flexibility and movement. The guy sometimes looks like a contortionist in some scenes where he moves in and out of prop windows, doors and under and around people.
The movement of a few pieces of furniture and props show the creative mentality of Rick Ortenblad’s sets. The resourceful lighting was delivered by John Bernard, with time fitting wardrobe by Abra Berman that lets the actors bend and move without splitting seams. Excellent sound by Christopher Graham and John Koss bring this very professional production to an enjoyable chaotic jumble.
Hitchcock fans might enjoy this fun homage to this superlative movie maker. If you aren’t familiar with his genius, time to get acquainted. Go out and rent the movie then see this very well done show.  You will definitely have an interesting experience.
“The 39 Steps”
Adapted by Patrick Barlow
Produced by The San Jose Stage
Directed by Kenneth Kelleher
Where: “ The Stage” –  490 S. First Street – San Jose
Through:  Dec. 20
Runs: 2 hours thirty minutes with one intermission
Tickets: $30-$65
Reservations and information: call (408) 283-7142 or visit www.the stage.org