Exclusive Interview with North by Northwest director, Emma Rice!

Hitchcock’s classic thriller, North by Northwest, is being adapted for the stage and touring the UK this spring. Our festival director, Dr Charlotte Crofts caught up with director Emma Rice

The iconic thriller is brought to life on stage with a cast of just six incredibly talented performers: Mirabelle Gremaud (Anna), Patrycja Kujawska (Eva Kendall), Simon Oskarsson (Valerian), Katy Owen (The Professor), Karl Queensborough (Philip Vandamm), and the captivating Ewan Wardrop as Roger Thornhill. This world premiere, a co-production with York Theatre Royal, HOME Manchester, and Liverpool Everyman & Playhouse, promises a riotously funny and dazzling adaptation.

From dodging spies and airplanes to navigating a complex femme fatale, Thornhill’s journey is a whirlwind of glamour, romance, and jeopardy. Experience the magic of a ’50s soundtrack and witness how Emma Rice and her shape-shifting cast turn this classic on its head.

For an exclusive behind-the-scenes look, watch our interview with Emma Rice where we discuss the complex stagecraft involved in bringing Hitchcock’s cinematic 2,000-mile chase to life, raising to the challenge of casting the iconic Roger Thornhill, the development of Eve Kendall’s character, and a contemporary twist to the ending. There is a plot spoiler towards the end but we give you an opportunity to pause the video (at 17:50 and resume at 18:40) if you don’t want to find out!:

Based on the Turner Entertainment Co. Film North by Northwest. Produced by special arrangement with Warner Bros. Theatre Ventures and Kay & McLean Productions.

Don’t miss North by Northwest as it tours the uk in 2025:

For more information visit the Wise Children website.