When I think "Hitchcock," I don't think "hilarity." I think suspense, intrigue, and sharp wit, but I don't expect my sides to be in stitches. Starting next week, Geva Theatre Center will present "The 39 Steps," a fast-paced, comedic whodunit adapted by Patrick Barlow, from the John Buchan novel and the 1935 film by Alfred Hitchcock.

The espionage-thriller-meets-slapstick-comedy follows Englishman Richard Hannay's encounters with dastardly murders, double-crossing secret agents, and of course, devastatingly beautiful women. Four dexterous actors will play more than 150 characters in this homage to film noir and theatrical stagecraft.

The show takes place at Geva Theatre Center Mainstage (75 Woodbury Blvd.) beginning with preview performances on Tuesday, October 22, with an opening on Saturday, October 26, continuing through November 17. Tickets start at $25. For reservations or more information, call 232-4382, or visit gevatheatre.org.