The 39 Steps

The 39 Steps ran for three nights in the Layard Theatre this Easter Term, delivering a sharp, fast‑paced and impressively executed Spring Production. The show highlighted the focus, skill and creativity of Canford pupils both on stage and behind the scenes.

Patrick Barlow’s Olivier and Tony Award winning adaptation of the Buchan novel and Hitchcock film follows Richard Hannay, an ordinary gentleman whose life takes a dramatic turn when he becomes entangled in a dangerous spy plot. Pursued across the country and encountering a host of eccentric characters, Hannay races to uncover the truth behind the mysterious “39 Steps”.

With rapid‑fire character changes, precise physical comedy and a set that transformed in seconds, The 39 Steps is a technically demanding piece - one that the cast and crew approached with impressive concentration and professionalism.

The set, built entirely in‑house by our fantastic Performing Arts Technicians, combined with imaginative props, ambitious lighting and detailed sound design, allowed the action to shift seamlessly from London to the Scottish Highlands and back again. The ensemble’s timing, energy and commitment kept audiences thoroughly engaged, and the packed theatre responded with enthusiasm throughout.

Co‑Directors Daniel McQue and Claire Camble‑Hutchins reflected:

This is a wonderfully technical show, full of detail and quick changes, and our cast and crew have handled it with real focus. Their teamwork and creativity have been a pleasure to watch. A huge THANK YOU to our amazing technical team for bringing it to life.

Full credit to everyone involved in a production that combined pace, wit and precision, with strong performances across the board and excellent work from the backstage and technical teams.

Photos from the show are available to members of the Canford community on Canford Media (school login required).