This theater review comes by way of The Sopris Stars, a new monthly youth publication powered by The Sopris Sun.
“The 39 Steps,” produced by Upstage Productions and directed by Sam Stableford and Iggy Richardson, was a fully student-run play that graced the stage at Roaring Fork High School from Nov. 6 to Nov. 8.
“The 39 Steps” follows a man named Richard Hannay after he is framed for the murder of Annabelle Schmidt, who claimed to be a spy being chased by assassins. Hannay flees from the police, and the same assassins, who pursue him throughout the rest of the story. Throughout his escape, he comes across a multitude of characters who help him along the way as he uncovers the secret of “The 39 Steps.”
The cast was made up of a group of 10 very talented individuals, all bringing something pivotal to the show. None of the actors were on mic, so they had to work twice as hard to make sure their voices carried throughout the venue. The actors also spoke in a vast array of accents displayed throughout the show, including: British, Irish, Scottish and German. Almost every cast member played multiple roles, capturing each character’s personality well.
But where this show really shines is through its comedy. The execution of every joke was thoughtfully planned out, allowing each gag and quip to land perfectly. One that was particularly entertaining was when Hannay was evading the police and found himself on a train. Because of the narrow alley between the seats, it became a struggle for characters to squeeze by each other, creating a comical sequence where everyone was tripping over one another during an otherwise suspenseful scene.
This production excelled in acting diversity, energy and sharpness. The onstage actors were not the only highlight, as this show was also supported by a very strong backstage and tech crew. Scene changes were quick and efficient, as were the lighting cues. For instance, whenever a character would mimic turning on a light in the show, the stage lights would match up almost instantaneously. The costumes were another highlight, fitting for the time period and also looked wonderful on stage. Altogether, the cast and crew, consisting solely of high school-aged youth, delivered a put-together, professional, engaging and, above all, hilarious show that had the audience in rapturous laughter.
When asked what drew Roaring Fork senior Sam Stableford and junior Iggy Richardson, the director and assistant director, respectively, to “The 39 Steps,” Stableford explained that he had been a part of the same play before and dreamed of directing it ever since.
Upstage Productions is a student-founded production company, and “The 39 Steps” is its second production, following “Sleepy Hollow” in the fall of 2024. Stableford emphasized that Upstage Productions is student-run, but added that they do receive occasional help from Thunder River Theatre Company and Sol Theatre Company.
Stableford and Richardson specifically expressed gratitude for Jennifer Austin Hughes, the founder and director of Sol Theatre. Stableford elaborated that Hughes has been a large mentor in his life, a huge supporter of the “The 39 Steps” production and of immense help to both him and Richardson.
Stableford spoke to the importance of the arts, especially in a place like Carbondale where there are more performing arts opportunities than other rural places, though they are still limited.
“We have so much untapped talent, and I’m surprised we’re not using it,” Stableford said.
To young people interested in pursuing the theater, Stableford emphasizes the importance of building a stable support system. Because of his personal involvement in the arts over the years, Stableford had an abundance of people he could call on to aid his endeavors. Acting experience is not required, and Stableford encouraged all high school students who are interested to join Upstage Productions.
Richardson explained how he has gone through many different roles of many different sizes and implored young people interested in theater not to be discouraged when they don’t get the largest role upfront.
“It’s definitely just trusting the process,” Richardson said. “Just keep improving.”
He commended the directors he has had in the past for their encouragement as he pursued the arts. Richardson articulated how excited he is to carry on the legacy Stableford will leave behind after graduation. Richardson only hopes that after he graduates next school year that Upstage Productions will live on.
To support Upstage Productions, visit www.soltheatrecompany.org/donate and include a note that the donation is for Upstage Productions.