#Sydney REVIEW – The 39 Steps at the Sydney Opera House. I surprised Miss with a show today so she could experience this brilliant piece of theatre as she’s studying improvisation in drama. And wow, was it clever! Imagine Hitchcock’s classic spy thriller colliding with Monty Python madness.
Director Damien Ryan told us this weekend’s shows were the very first previews before opening night on Tuesday, and to expect a few technical hiccups as they iron things out but what we saw was flawlessly hilarious and it was a full house too! Four actors playing 130 characters in just 100 minutes. Lisa McCune, Ian Stenlake, and The Umbilical Brothers (David Collins and Shane Dundas) didn’t miss a beat. Quick-fire costume changes, accents, wigs, moving sets, sound effects, animal sounds, quirks and even dealing with unexpected surprises, we were all laughing till we cried 🤣🤣
After thrilling over 3 million fans across 39 countries from London’s West End to Broadway, this international sensation has been reimagined and is now touring Australia. If you love a good laugh and great acting and have a budding drama student, this is one to see! On at the Sydney Opera House until 30 August before heading to Newcastle, Melbourne, and Brisbane. I scored great seats last-minute on the @todaytixau app and will definitely be using it again! #selffunded #The39Steps @the39stepsplay @sydneyoperahouse
Note: This performance is recommended for ages 11 and up with a duration of 2 hrs and 10 minutes, including a 20 minute interval. The performance includes the use of theatrical guns, loud sound effects with gunshots, strobe lighting, and haze.
Mix Alfred Hitchcock’s classic spy thriller with a dash of Monty Python-style chaos, and you get THE 39 STEPS — a turbo-charged, Olivier and Tony Award-winning comedy smash. After thrilling more than 3 million fans across 39 countries — from London’s West End to Broadway — this international sensation is reimagined and coming to Australia.
Directed by acclaimed theatre-maker Damien Ryan and starring two of Australia’s most beloved talents: Lisa McCune (Blue Heelers, Sea Patrol, The King and I) Ian Stenlake (Sea Patrol, Stingers) and The Umbilical Brothers (David Collins and Shane Dundas) THE 39 STEPS is ready to make its way across Australia in an unmissable national tour this year.
Join the suave but unsuspecting Richard Hannay as he finds himself framed for murder and tangled in a web of spies, secrets, and seductive strangers. To clear his name, he must outrun the law, outwit international agents, and survive a string of increasingly absurd adventures.
In just 100 minutes of non-stop action, four fearless actors play 130 roles in a dazzling display of quick changes, inventive stagecraft, and high-energy hilarity. A gripping fast-paced comedy thriller that will leave you breathless with laughter.
Event Details:
Dates: 8 - 30 August 2025
Times: Tues-Fri 7pm, Thurs-Sat 7:30pm, Wed 2pm, Sat 2:30pm, Sun 3pm (performance times vary each week)
Duration: Performance will run for approximately 120 minutes, including a 20 minute interval. Event duration is a guide only and may be subject to change.
Suitable for: Recommended 11+. Children aged 15 years and under must be accompanied at all times.
Location: Drama Theatre, Sydney Opera House
Tickets: From $69.00 (Transaction fees apply)
Bookings: www.sydneyoperahouse.com or (02) 9250 7777
Groups 8 + call (02) 9250 7777
TICKETS NOW ON PRESALE, GP SALES FROM 22 MAY
Warnings: Performance will contain haze smoke machines and may also contain strobe lighting.