ACTION-packed and wonderfully entertaining, Studio Theatre brings 39 Steps to the stage with an inventive and flamboyant flourish.

Directed by Lesley Bates, the cast of five actors flew in all directions as they mastered more than 100 roles in the spy comedy thriller by John Buchan.

Paul Chalmers was fabulous as the dashing hero Richard Hannay who, jaded with life and those around him while living a bland life in London, relishes his chance to save England when caught up in the murder of a mysterious foreign spy.

His encounters with those around him as he travels to Scotland and back again had the audience roaring with laughter as every corner of the tiny theatre was used to great effect – the long-distance train journey is marvellously recreated and the field of sheep, great fun.

James Bradwell and Alistair Faulkner were astonishing in the speed at which they switched roles, juggling accents, hats, costumes and lines to perfection time and time again.

And Rachel Fletcher and Emma Young were splendid creating havoc for Hannay at every turn.

A true delight and enormous fun, it was clear everyone on Monday enjoyed the show as much as all those involved in the production – both on and off the stage. The 39 Steps runs until Saturday.

Elizabeth Kemble