OFF Centre director Martin Newman again delivered an adventurous and creative production withThe 39 Steps , reports TONY SUMMERS.

A terrific cast, complemented by a wonderful team, delivered a superb interpretation of this classic spy spoof, delighting packed houses over three performances.

Hannay and Pamela
Adrian Bevan played Hannay and Bex Townsend played Pamela (Rob Spence)

Whilst sticking pretty faithfully to John Buchan’s book, the cast brought wonderful moments to the Savoy stage, ranging from “almost” subtle pathos to Keystone Cops-esque chaos.

Adrian Bevan was assured as principal character Hannay, blending murder suspect and lovelorn protagonist before saving Britain from disaster thanks to Mr Memory.

His amorous focus was played by Bex Townsend, who commanded the stage with delightfully artistic renderings of early murder victim Annabella Schmidt, Margaret McTyte and, Pamela Edwards, who converts Hannay to true love.

David Harris was an incomparable compère, the incomprehensible McQuarrie, and the ridiculous Willie McGarrigle.

The 39 Steps included some brilliant slapstick
The 39 Steps included some brilliant slapstick (Rob Spence)

And Hamish Sperring and Jane Rogers brought brilliant slapstick in several disguises, while villainous German, Professor Jordan, was superbly portrayed by Steve Banner, who also morphed into a convincing McTyte.

And who can forget Arturo Sanchez Garcia’s memorable Mr Memory, his dying performance forever carved into our minds!

It's the end of the road for Mr Memory
It's the end of the road for Mr Memory (Rob Spence)

Superb support came from Beatrice Newberry (Milkman, Dunwoody), Caroline Pearce (Mrs Higgins and dramatic dancer), Stephen James (wacky radio announcer), Kate Russell (Mrs Jordan), Lexy Yorke (Sheriff and Mrs McGarrigle) and Tony Wells (Chief Inspector Albright).

Caroline Pearce played an exotic dancer
Caroline Pearce played an exotic dancer (Rob Spence)

And the lighting, special effects team, and backstage crew added so much drama and atmosphere to the marvellous set and props.

Director Martin said: “When there seems to be so much stupidity in the world, it’s a joy and honour to pay homage to sheer silliness.

Monmouth's Off Centre performed the 39 Steps as part of their 40th anniversary year
Monmouth's Off Centre performed The 39 Steps as part of their 40th anniversary year (Rob Spence)

“This cast and crew had so much fun and I’m thrilled that the audiences were thoroughly infected with this superb theatrical nonsense.”

OCT return in June with the hilarious One Man – Two Guvnors,.

Award-winning Off Centre is celebrating its 40th anniversary. See www.offcentretheatre.org.uk or contact Tony Summers on 07840 440304.