Subject to being granted the performing rights, RMDC's next production at the end of March 2020 will be "The 39 Steps" by Patrick Barlow. It is based on an original story written in 1915 by John Buchan, a story which some regard as the forerunner of the modern thriller. Alfred Hitchcock made a film of the same name in 1935, starring Robert Donat. Whilst retaining some of the mystery and swashbuckling adventure of Hitchcock's film, Barlow's script is essentially a parody of the film with a good deal of added humor, spoof, satire and general mayhem. It was originally conceived for a cast of four, with one actor playing the hero, Richard Hannay, one playing the three women with whom he has romantic entanglements, and two other actors playing a multitude of other characters, often involving fast changes and sometimes playing several characters at once. However, the play can be performed equally well with a larger ensemble cast. It has been performed very successfully with a cast of over 50! One of the reasons for choosing the play is precisely because the production can be tailored to the level of interest from RMDC members.
Performances dates: 25th-28th March
Director: Peter Woodward
Rehearsals: Beginning W/C 20th January, 2 nights per week initially - days to be arranged.
Auditions will be held at 7.30pm on 9th January in the Methodist chapel
for anyone interested in being cast in the play.
Please also contact Peter if:
- You would like to have a look at a script beforehand.
- You'd like to know anything more about the play.
- You're interested in being cast but can't make 9th January.
- You are interested in being involved backstage.