(Michael
Gritten and Loyiso McDonald. Pic by Val Adamson)
Quite simply, a brilliant production.
(Review by Keith Millar)
The hilarious comedy spoof, The 39 Steps, which is currently on at
the Catalina Theatre is quite simply, a brilliant production. This unique and
innovative melodramatic whodunit offers everything from action and mystery to
murder and romance, and contains all the elements of first-class entertainment.
Set in 1935 it is populated by a superb array
of larger than life British characters. The lead role of Richard Hannay, the
amateur sleuth who sets out to solve the mystery of the 39 Steps, is played
with authority and energy by Clinton Small. All the other characters, and there
are many of them, are played by just three actors. Clare Mortimer, Loyiso
McDonald and Michael Gritten are superb as they switch accents, hats and
sometimes just facial expression to they portray the cast of hundreds.
Michael Gritten, in particular, gives a
comedy master class as each of the personalities he plays gets more and more
hilarious and tongue in cheek than the previous one. Loyiso McDonald is not
far behind and maybe it is his surname which explains his very convincing
Scottish accents. Clair Mortimer is all elegance and aloof sex appeal in the
many female roles she portrays.
The
39 Steps is in some ways suggestive of a radio
production. Its reliance on sound effects, dramatic music and versatile artists
playing multiple roles is reminiscent of “The Theatre of The Mind”. However,
moments such as the chase on the Flying Scotsman, the escape on the Fourth
Bridge, the crash of a bi-plane and the finale at the London Palladium are
truly theatrical. Great credit is due to the director, the acting skills of the
cast, and the inspired props, sound effects and music for pulling this off.
In the first half, the action moves along
at a swift and energetic pace and the laughs come with great regularity. However,
after interval they seemed to lose their way for a while when it seemed as if
energy and concentration levels dropped a bit - but this is a small niggle and
something that I am sure can be remedied.
Patrick Barlow’s award winning stage
adaptation of The 39 Steps is based
John Buchan’s 1915 novel, and Alfred Hitchcock’s iconic movie made in 1935. It
has been running for six years on the West End and five years on Broadway.
Now Themi Venturas has brought it to Durban
for a short season to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Catalina Theatre,
and to add another gem to the city’s impressive festive theatre offering. He
should be congratulated for choosing a production of this quality and
intelligence for this important event rather than following the stereotypical
route of glitter and tinsel.
The Catalina Theatre at Wilson’s Wharf
overlooking Durban Harbour is a great place to be on a balmy Durban evening -
and when there is a theatre experience such as The 39 Steps on offer, what could be better. This creative
theatrical tour de force deserves to
be supported. Add The 39 Steps to your list of festive
entertainment for this year. You will not be disappointed.
The 39 Steps runs until December
30 on Thursdays and Fridays at 20h00, Saturdays at 14h30 and 20h00 and Sundays
at 14h30 and 18h00. Bookings on 031 305 6889 or online at www.strictlytickets.com – Keith Millar
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