North by Northwest - Cheltenham Everyman REVIEW

Emma Rice’s adaptation of North by Northwest at the Cheltenham Everyman is a whirlwind of witty theatrics, clever staging, and non-stop entertainment. With a strong cast of six, including standout performances from Katy Owen as the hilariously eccentric Professor and Ewan Wardrop’s charismatic Roger Thornhill, the show is a delightful send-up of Hitchcock’s classic, blending sharp parody with a clear affection for the original.

Fans of Operation Mincemeat will find much to enjoy here. The multi-rolling characters, spy-themed farce, and 1950s-style musical interludes—cleverly mimed rather than sung—are executed with playful charm.

Rice’s ingenious approach to staging brings high-octane chase scenes and thrilling action stunts to life with a delightful dose of whimsy. The prop gags and set reveals are so well-timed they often earn their own laughs, adding to the overall sense of joyful absurdity.

While the show maintains a brisk and engaging pace throughout, the final scene on Mount Rushmore doesn’t quite match the energy or ingenuity of what came before, lacking a bit of the "wow factor" the rest of the production so effortlessly delivers.

Utterly daft in the best way, this is a show that doesn’t take itself too seriously but still respects the original film. Even for those unfamiliar with Hitchcock’s masterpiece, the clever humour, fast pace, and spirited performances make for a thoroughly enjoyable evening.