Imagine a Monty Python version of an Alfred Hitchcock thriller and the result is The 39 Steps, adapted by Patrick Barlow and presented by the University Players, November 24 to December 3 at the Essex Hall Theatre.

Director Kelly Daniels describes the show as absolutely magical and delightful.

“It’s all of the elements of theatre coming together to produce some really creative and imaginative storytelling,” she says. “At this time of the year and the chaos of the world, we could all use a fabulous laugh!”

The story follows Richard Hannay, whose boring life in 1935 London, England, suddenly turns upside down upon meeting a beautiful woman who claims to be a spy. Once she is mysteriously murdered in his home, he becomes the target of a manhunt across the British Isles, chased by police as well as a mysterious organization of spies known as the 39 Steps.

On a quest to clear his name, Hannay runs into characters both mysterious and zany, morphing the revered spy thriller into a hilariously over-the-top comedy.

Performances from Wednesday to Saturday start at 8 p.m. with weekend matinees at 2 p.m. On Sunday, November 26, a “Talk Back” discussion with the actors will follow the performance. Order tickets online at www.UniversityPlayers.com or phone 519-253-3000, ext. 2808.