The 39 Steps at the Criterion Theatre

There are many restricted view seats at the Criterion Theatre due to the pillars all around the Stalls and Dress Circle. Be sure to check our seating plan before booking to find out if these will affect your view. 

This fantastic stage adaptation has been running in London for a number of years, gaining mass critical and commercial support. Based on the John Buchan novel and the Hitchcock film of the same name, the play is fast paced and high energy, using only four actors in over 100 different roles. This heavily stylised piece has had audiences from all over the world laughing, with its biting humour and visual comedy. The skillful adaptation remains faithful to the 1935 film, and includes many references to Hitchcock’s other famous films such as ‘North by Northwest’ and ‘Vertigo’. 

A murder in a London flat leads to a detective story that takes our leading man to the Highlands of Scotland, involving multiple chase sequences, train walking and swinging from the Forth Bridge. As the search for ‘the 39 steps’ develops, a colourful cast of characters push the story along from the extreme to the ridiculous. This play has been seen all over the world and continues to mount brand new international productions. The combination of expertly timed physical theatre, visual humour and a witty script make this one of the funniest evenings you can have in a theatre. 

2007 Olivier Award: Best Comedy 

2008 Tony Awards: Best Lighting Design, Best Sound Design 

• The play was originally intended as a two actor adaptation, but this was later developed into the current four actor version. 
• This very English play begin life at the West Yorkshire Playhouse in Leeds in June 2005