The Coachella Valley Repertory’s production of “The 39 Steps” premieres Wednesday.
Adapted from a John Buchan novel and subsequent Alfred Hitchcock film, the play puts a comedic spin on the original spy thriller. Patrick Barlow’s theatrical script calls for a cast of four actors to portray over 150 characters — occasionally, multiple characters at once.
CVRep’s production features Matthew Floyd Miller as British spy Richard Hannay, Louis Lotorto as “Clown/Man #1,” Christopher Shaw as “Clown/Man #2” and Ashley Morton as “the Woman,” as well as the direction of Jamie Torcellini.
The play premiered in 2005 and reached Broadway three years later, winning an Olivier Award for Best New Comedy and two Tony Awards from six nominations.
Preview shows begin at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Wednesday, with the full run lasting through Dec. 22. Ticket information can be found at cvrep.org/productions/the-39-steps.