Audition: The 39 Steps (15/11/2026)

Sun, 15 Nov 2026 15:00:00 GMT

The 39 Steps

Adapted by Patrick Barlow

From the novel by John Buchan

From the 1935 movie by Alfred Hitchcock

Licensed by ITV Global Entertainment Limited

And an original concept by Simon Corble and Nobby Dimon

Directed by Lois & Perry Savill

Performances: Tuesday 16 – Saturday 20 February 2027

Putney Arts Theatre Main Auditorium (150 seats)

Audition dates

Sunday 15th November at 3pm
Monday 16th November at 7pm.

Recalls (if needed) - Thursday 19th November 7pm

AUDITION INFORMATION:

Preparation:

You do not need to prepare anything, but it would be helpful if you have read the play. Please arrive on time.

Please email directors Lois and Perry Savill at ptc.39steps@gmail.com if you would like to audition but cannot attend on the official dates or you have any other queries.

AUDITION FORM

Please fill in the audition form here by Friday 13th November

If you are unable to attend please try to let us know at least 24 hours in advance for logistical reasons.

REHEARSAL period:

Rehearsals will take place from w/c 30th November onwards for 2 evenings per week, as well as a rehearsal on Sundays (days and times may vary week to week). Please be prepared to rehearse on up to 4 days a week nearer to the performance week.

ABOUT THE PLAY:

Richard Hannay is bored until a beautiful woman dies in his lap. What follows… a man is hunted, spies are on pursuit, police are confused, a woman is kissed and handcuffed and a Scotsman loses his coat. The 39 Steps (winner of two Tonys and an Olivier Award for Best New Comedy) is a highly comedic parody of the 1935 Hitchcock thriller.

This production requires four versatile actors. Physical comedy is essential in all roles and three must be exceptional at multi-rolling and quick changes. The fast set changes will (for the majority) be conducted by the cast so the ability to move large set pieces is also a necessity. It is fast, furious and very funny! Experience of jumping off high-speed trains would be an advantage.

Please note, this production will use flashing lights, haze and loud noises.

This amateur production of THE 39 STEPS is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd. on behalf of Samuel French, Ltd. www.concordtheatricals.co.uk

Characters:

Playing ages included for audition purposes. Actual age of the actor is less important than their ability to create the character.

Richard Hannay (male)

Playing age: 30-40

Dashing, debonair and suave, a quintessential gentleman. His time on-the-run only adds a handsome ruggedness to his good looks. Requires actor to be clean shaven to allow for a pencil moustache.

Annabella Schmidt/Pamela/Margaret (female)

Playing age: 25-35

Multi-rolling ability is essential. Annabella is a sultry European, Pamela – the plucky heroine and Margaret – a put upon Scotswoman. Must have the ability to die dramatically and convincingly and will be asked to produce some sort of a Scottish accent.

Clown 1 (any age/gender)

Multi-rolling is fundamental as it will require playing ten or more characters including (but not exclusive to) a compere, a charwoman, a police officer, a salesman, a newsboy, a pilot, a Scotswoman, a spy, a spy’s wife, the general public and possibly inanimate objects (exact list to be finalised).

Clown 2 (any age/gender)

Multi-rolling is fundamental as it will require playing ten or more characters including (but not exclusive to) Mr Memory, a milkman, a police officer, a salesman, a train conductor, a pilot, a Scotsman, an old professor, the general public and possibly inanimate objects (exact list to be finalised).

Diversity, Inclusion & Casting Vision

PTC is committed to diversity and inclusion. We want a membership that is reflective of the diverse communities within London. We actively encourage all performers to audition for the roles which they feel best suit their skills.

Where ethnicities are not listed against the characters, we would openly encourage actors of all ethnicities to consider those roles.

COSTS

Please note that this is an amateur production. You do not need to be a member of Putney Theatre Company to audition, but actors and crew will need to become a member of Putney Theatre Company to take part in the show. That cost is currently £30 a year. As a member you will have access to reduced ticket prices and other creative opportunities. There is no cost to audition.

There is also a show fee of £35 which will need to be paid by all actors in the production, which goes towards the cost of putting on the show and insurance. It will include a copy of the script should those cast not have their own.

We encourage you to become a member of PTC anyway, even if not cast.

Our company is run by volunteers and we expect all actors cast in a production to volunteer for Front of House duties at least once a year. Our shows could not go up without our Front of House volunteers.

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

PTC knows that taking part in a show can be a significant financial burden. We are committed to being as inclusive as possible. So, if you would like to discuss how we can help you, a member of the committee will be able to confidentially assist. Please enquire for more information. Rest assured, if you have requested financial assistance, it will have no bearing on whether you are cast in the show.

OTHER WAYS TO GET INVOLVED

There are always other ways to be involved in the production other than auditioning.

Backstage opportunities available include:

· Lighting/sound operator

· Set construction

· Assistant stage manager

· Hair and make-up assistant

Please get in touch with info@putneyartstheatre.org.uk if you are interested in getting involved.

You can get in touch with Directors, Lois and Perry Savill with any questions you may have by emailing ptc.39steps@gmail.com

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