A comedy thriller based on Alfred Hitchcock’s The 39 Steps is being performed by the Downsview Players in Upper Norwood.
The 39 Steps, written by Patrick Barlow, is being performed on 18, 19 and 20 May at Downsview Methodist Church, Waddington Way.
The play, set in 1935, sees Richard Hannay on the run from the law following a murder. In a bid to clear his name, he follows a string of clues to solve a plot to smuggle top secret defence documents out of the country during a time of heightened tensions and rumours of imminent war. Pamela Edwards, played by Ella Pitt, from Sydenham, is taken hostage by Hannay, played by Dan Carr, from West Norwood, as he flees for his life.
Money raised from the cake sale during the performances will be donated to Croydon Refugee Day Centre, based at West Croydon Baptist Church in Whitehorse Road, which offers practical assistance and support to asylum seekers and refugees.
Director Amanda Perry said she had chosen The 39 Steps as it was a humorous version of the classic Hitchcock movie.
She said: “It’s a thrilling tale but because there are so many scenes, with the Players doubling up on the parts, it’s been quite a challenge, It’s been fun directing this play and everyone has worked so hard to pull this off. I hope the audience have as much fun as we’ve had rehearsing this funny adaptation of The 39 Steps.”
Dan Carr, who plays Hannay, said he had enjoyed playing the role which had many different challenges.
He said: “I’ve had so many lines to learn as I’m in almost every scene plus the role has been physically challenging, whether it’s climbing over stiles or through windows and even scaling the Forth Bridge. I’ve had to perform all my own stunts as I was told by the director that there sadly wasn’t a budget for a body double!!”
There are four performances at Downsview Methodist Church Hall, Waddington Way, SE19 3XH: evening performances start at 8pm on 18th, 19th and 20th May with a matinee performance at 2pm on 20th May. Tickets can be booked on www.ticketsource.co.uk/thedownsviewplayers
