Phillip Ball, Heidi Nicholls Bowser, Casey Bowser and Ken Smith recreate a scene from "The 39 Steps" at the Butler Little Theatre on Tuesday, Feb. 22, 2022. The show runs March 4 to 12. Joseph Ressler/Butler Eagle

Joseph Ressler

Where can one find chases, escapes, deception, suspense, murder, love and knee-slapping hilarity? Look no further than the Butler Little Theatre’s production of “The 39 Steps.”

The show is a comical spin on the popular Hitchcock film with a four-person cast. Working together, the actors created multiple characters and scenes both complex and amusing with dexterity and skill, proving their hard work and dedication and that of director Duane Peters.

The farce opens with discontented Englishman Richard Hannay, played by Casey Bowser, as he seeks solace from his dull life by seeing an “utterly mindless” play. There he meets gorgeous German secret agent Annabella, played by Heidi Nicholls Bowser, who introduces him to a world involving spies, confidential information and something known as “the 39 steps.” Hannay eventually finds himself being pursued for a crime he did not commit, while trying to uncover the secrets Annabella laid before him.

Though the plot may seem heavy at first glance, “39 Steps” offers endless gags, thousands of costume changes, a slew of props and several nods to the Hitchcock canon.

Hats off to the stellar stage crew for their seamless, quick set changes that kept the fast-moving plot on pace. Though working with a minimal set, the cast’s dynamic and booming personalities filled the space.

Audiences won’t be able to stop smiling at the characters Hannay meets on his journey, all played by clowns Ken Smith and Phillip Ball. Their ridiculously contagious, slapstick energy was something to behold in every role they portrayed. A single hat became a whole new character as recognizable and funny as the last.

Casey played the perfect melodramatic Englishman from start to finish. He was a consistent, cunning and debonair hero with impressive feats and daring escapes.

There’s something to be said for Nicholls Bowser’s graceful portrayals of Hannay’s three love interests. Each character was distinct from each other and masterfully conveyed. From the ruthless spy to demure farmer’s wife and intelligent Englishwoman, each was beautiful and strong in her own way.

All four actors presented an impressive knowledge of what would send audiences reeling. Each demonstrated great timing, physical prowess and emotional range while miming various scenarios, from climbing on train cars to flying airplanes.

If you seek adventure, or are hoping for an escape of your own, follow in Hannay’s footsteps to the theater and see a play. “The 39 Steps” is a grand and worthy adventure to start with.