It’s hard to believe that in just three days, one of the most uproarious shows of the year—The 39 Steps, performed by the exceptionally talented Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble (BTE)—will take its final bow. Fear not, theater lovers! There are still a few performances left (through October 12, 2025) at the Alvina Krause Theatre in downtown Bloomsburg, PA, with shows starting at 7:30 PM.
For the low cost of $38.50 per ticket (regular adult)/$33.50 (senior)/$18.50 (student) – you can treat yourself to a night of side-splitting, world-class entertainment. If you’re in Central Pennsylvania and craving a memorable evening, let me insist: snag a ticket to this comedic gem before it vanishes like a spy in the night.
BTE kicks off its 48th season with The 39 Steps, a testament to its enduring mission of bringing vibrant, professional theater to the heart of rural Pennsylvania. Founded in 1978, BTE is a resident ensemble of artists dedicated to creating innovative, community-driven performances that rival big-city stages. Housed in the intimate Alvina Krause Theatre, BTE’s collaborative spirit and bold choices have made it a cultural cornerstone, fostering a deep connection with audiences through storytelling that’s both accessible and profound.
As a self-professed theater enthusiast, I’ll admit this is my first stab at writing a live performance review—surprising, given how much I adore the art form! Since moving to Central PA, I’ve been thrilled to discover BTE, a true community-based theater in my backyard. From my first visit to the Alvina Krause Theatre to this latest show, -BTE never fails to dazzle.
The 39 Steps is no exception—it’s quite possibly the funniest play I’ve ever witnessed, leaving me in figurative stitches.
Adapted by Patrick Barlow from John Buchan’s 1915 novel and Alfred Hitchcock’s 1935 film, The 39 Steps is a masterclass in theatrical chaos, blending the suspense of a spy thriller with the absurdity of a Monty Python sketch. The story follows Richard Hannay (played with suave charm by Aaron White), an ordinary man thrust into a whirlwind of espionage, murder, and mistaken identities after a chance encounter with a mysterious woman. What unfolds is a breakneck adventure across Britain, packed with daring escapes, shadowy conspiracies, and the enigmatic “39 Steps.”
What sets BTE’s production apart is its sheer audacity: four actors tackle a staggering 150 characters. Save for Aaron White’s steadfast Hannay, the ensemble—Amy Rene Byrne, Keith Livingston, and Kimie Muroya—morphs into a dizzying array of spies, cops, innkeepers, and more with lightning-fast costume changes and impeccable comedic timing. Their versatility is nothing short of accolade-worthy, delivering a performance that’s as physically demanding as it is hilarious.
If I had to choose a standout moment – it would have to be the bloody hilarious train chase/on the lamb moment(s). Folks, I absolutely died with laughter watching those events unfold – and, I was not alone. The entire audience were also left in stitches.
The production’s brilliance lies in its balance of Hitchcockian suspense and irreverent humor. Helmed by Director James E. Ofalt – who brilliantly leans into the script’s meta-theatricality, winking at the audience while keeping the stakes thrillingly high. The minimalist set, paired with clever lighting and sound design, transforms the stage into everything from a speeding train to a foggy moor, all while amplifying the comedy. It’s a reminder of theater’s magic: with a few props and boundless creativity, BTE conjures an entire world.
The 39 Steps is a love letter to theater itself, celebrating the absurd lengths actors go to for our entertainment. For Central PA residents or anyone within driving distance, this is a must-see. At $38.50 for adults and a 7:30 PM curtain, it’s an affordable, unforgettable night out. Don’t miss your chance to witness BTE’s triumphant start to their 48th season.
Run, don’t walk, to the Alvina Krause Theatre before the curtain falls on October 12!
For tickets and further information – please visit bte.org. You can also find the Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble on both Facebook and Instagram.
Author’s Note: To the amazing cast and crew of BTE’s production of “The 39 Steps” – bravo & brava! Congratulations to the start of what is sure to be yet another fantastic season at BTE!