Behind the Laughter: Crafting Comedy the comedy for 39 Steps at Derby Theatre.
Arts & Toast with Kirsty Corbett
Thursday, 17 September 2026 - 13 minutes
In this interview, we explore the delightful chaos of theatre production, where creativity meets absurdity. Three members of the cast, James Keningdale, Katherine Perkins & Tom Mitchell, share their experiences from rehearsals filled with laughter and unexpected moments, all while preparing for their newest show under the direction of Cal McCrystal.This interview is a behind-the-scenes look reveals the heart of theatrical comedy, where every rehearsal is an adventure filled with creativity and camaraderie. James, Kat and Tom debate how many characters there actually are, with numbers ranging from 70 (ish) to 130 plus wearing multiple costumes on stage due to the fast paced, multi-character nature of the show. The director, Cal McChrystal, is celebrated for his playful and democratic approach to rehearsals. The cast feels encouraged to push boundaries and explore the limits of comedy, creating a nurturing environment for creativity. The physical demands of their roles are no joke. James shares a glimpse into the demanding routines that involve a mix of magic tricks and slapstick humour. Yet, amidst the sweat and laughter, they find freedom in their roles, trading the intricacies of Shakespeare for a more liberated, cartoonish style of acting.🎟️ The show runs from 29 September 2026 – 17 October 2026 and tickets are on sale now for the show from the Derby Theatre website.
