Time Steps

The profoundly silly four-person live stage version of The 39 Steps was originally billed as Alfred Hitchcock’s The 39 Steps or John Buchan’s “The 39 Steps” adapted by Patrick Barlow (who played Bridget Jones’ mom’s boyfriend!). But at this point, Phoenix Theatre trusts you to know it’s not a 1935 film (and not about a staircase). Reluctant hero Richard Hannay’s struggle against mysterious evil forces trying to rule the world is merely a framework for an ultra-Brit whirlwind of physical comedy and painfully punny homage. Note that Toby Yatso, cast here as one of two utility clowns who portray around 75 people each, is approximately twice the height of beensy and hilarious leading lady Angelica Howland, and hasten to snag tickets, starting at $30, to Thursday, October 10’s 7:30 p.m. performance (or another showtime between now and Sunday, October 20) at 100 East McDowell Road, at www.phoenixtheatre.com or 602-254-2151.

Wednesdays-Fridays, 7:30 p.m.; Saturdays, 2 & 7:30 p.m.; Sun., Oct. 20, 2 p.m. Starts: Oct. 2. Continues through Oct. 19, 2013