By Siena Estacio and Hannah Reyes, Student Journalists, Salesian College Preparatory –

(Richond, California) – Salesian College Preparatory’s production of “The 39 Steps” [on Saturday, November 1] was a captivating rendition of Alfred Hitchcock’s timeless classic from this year’s drama department. Director Janet O’Hair’s modern vision of blending action, romance, and humor to create a dizzying spy adventure easily captures the audience’s attention. Despite a small cast and crew filled with rookies, the production was skillfully pulled off through their ambitious efforts. Their hard work on and off the stage truly made the production come to life. 

The play takes place in the early 1930s and follows a charismatic Englishman, played by Alex Butson, who stumbles into involvement with a spy, played by Isabella Sterlino, who tells him of a top-secret air ministry secret called “the thirty-nine steps.” Through a twisting adventure across London and Scotland, he finds himself amidst strange Scottish characters played by Xavier Garcia, Marilyn Grady, Elijah Jimenez, Kayla Mishu, Meliya Quidachay, Logan Juachony Oliver Tucker. Surprisingly, he somehow ends up saving the country romantically handcuffed to the lovely Pamela Edwards, played by Maddy Gaynor.

Meanwhile, the set and background consisted of borrowed trunks, student-sewn curtains, and an armchair from Facebook Marketplace. Director Ms. O’Hair’s use of simple set design emphasizes audience imagination. It centralizes focus on the actors’ performance, while investing in the tech crew for comedic sound effects, moody lighting, and even creating and projecting a film mid-performance. With the combined hard work of the student-run backstage crew and running crew (stagehands) led by senior Rianna Winston and junior Siena Estacio, they were able to help director Ms. O’Hair successfully execute her vision of the play.

Alongside its minimal set design, the cast’s performances and dedication to their roles showcased their talent and versatility. Despite its small cast, the actors seamlessly shifted between characters and personalities. For many of the actors, this was their debut performance, yet they came with seasoned acting chops that helped build the world around them. The cast notably excelled through their comedic timing, stage presence, and natural chemistry, captivating audiences from start to finish. Their infectious energy and commitment to their roles truly made ‘The 39 Steps’ a performance worth watching. 

The annual fall play of ‘The 39 Steps’ brings the drama department new beginnings of not just the Salesian school year, but a new core cast and crew. Congrats to the Drama department and  Ms.O’Hair for a wonderful fall performance!

Photos: Tyler Sullivan