Carlsbad, CA—New Village Arts (NVA), North County’s cultural hub, presents San Diego comedic royalty in 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 NVA’s critically acclaimed production of the musical FUN HOME. THE 39 STEPS will run from APRIL 13TH – MAY 12TH, 2024. Previews will be held from APRIL 5TH – 12TH, with an Opening Night reception on April 13th.
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 throughout.
Guiding the theatrical spectacle is the esteemed Dr. AJ Knox, New Village Arts’ resident comedic director. Dr. Knox’s extensive contribution to the NVA 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.”
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. McLauglin is no stranger to the NVA 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, Performance Riverside, and more. Reden Magtira and Kenny Bordieri (another NVA Debut, who was recently seen locally as Vinnie in LUCKY STIFF during a co-production between Scripps Ranch Theatre and Oceanside Theatre Company) accompany McLaughlin & Weisz as the Clowns, which rounds out our star studded cast. Nick Siljander (SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN, 2023) and Lilana Talwatte (NVA Debut) will understudy for the production.
THE 39 STEPS
Adapted by Patrick Barlow from the novel by John Buchan
From the movie by Alfred Hitchcock
Directed by Dr. AJ Knox
Previews: April 5-12
Opening Night: April 13
April 13 – May 12
Olivier Award for Best Comedy and Tony Award for Best Play
Opening Night: June 15
June 15 – July 21
A Pulitzer Prize. A National Book Award. Eleven Academy Award Nominations. Four Golden Globe Nominations. Three Tony Awards.
Performance Days and Times
Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday Matinees at 2:00 pm
Thursday, Friday and Saturday Evenings at 7:30 pm
Tickets
Single tickets range from $30 to $60.
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New Village Arts is a non-profit, tax-exempt organization listed under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS
New Village Arts, Inc.
2787 State Street, Carlsbad, CA 92008. Phone: 760-433-3245
www.newvillagearts.org
