Patrick Barlow's stage adaptation, which is based on the Alfred Hitchcock film and the novel by John Buchan, is staged by TheatreWorks artistic director Robert Kelly. The 39 Steps began previews Jan. 15 and will run through Feb. 13.

The cast of four, who inhabit some 150 characters in the fast-paced comic thriller, are Mark Anderson Phillips, Rebecca Dines, Cassidy Brown and Dan Hiatt.

According to TheatreWorks, "Hitchcockian references fly like birds in The 39 Steps. Richard Hannay is a notorious fugitive, and a man who knows too much, and Pamela is a breathtaking blonde, just a stranger on a train. This irresistible Broadway smash hurtles the unlikely pair north by northwest in a dizzying pursuit to Scotland’s most remote highlands, leaving audiences with vertigo. With a beautiful, mysteriously murdered secret agent, a devious plot that threatens to destroy the safety of England, and a handsome square-jawed hero on a race across the country to catch a thief, this exuberantly funny show is an ingenious homage to the master’s great films."

The production has sound design by Christopher Graham, lighting design by Steven B. Mannshardt, costume design by B. Modern and scenic design by Joe Ragey.

The 39 Steps is now in its fourth year in London. The play received its American premiere at the Huntington Theatre Company in Boston in 2007 and transferred to Broadway on Jan. 4, 2008. 39 Steps earned Tony nominations for Best Play and Best Direction, and won honors for Best Lighting and Best Sound Design.

For tickets phone (650) 463-1960 or visit TheatreWorks.

TheatreWorks' Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts is located at 500 Castro Street (at Mercy) in Mountain View, CA.