15th November 2018
The People's Theatre production of Blithe Spirit is a delight. Light hearted and fun, it is the perfect pick-me-up for the end of a busy week.
The set is a sumptuous depiction of a country house, complete with leather chesterfield and wingback armchair, drinks trolley and French windows with just a glimpse of wisteria covered garden wall. it is perfect for the setting of Coward's witty comedy.
Charles and Ruth Condomine (Ian Willis and Emma Weetch) have arranged a dinner party with friends Dr and Mrs Bradman (John MacDonald and Karen Elliot) and invited a local medium, Madame Arcati (Maggie Childs) to hold a séance as research for Charles' latest book. Neither the Condomines nor the Bradmans believe Madame Arcati is genuine and they take great delight in making fun of her "performance" during the séance. However much to the surprise of Charles, he discovers that Mme Arcati has in fact summoned the spirit of Elvira (Alison Carr) his deceased first wife. Only Charles can see and hear Elvira and he has to convince Ruth that he is not playing a joke on her, or indeed, going mad! Obviously there are many misunderstandings as Ruth hears Charles talking to Elvira, and assumes he is talking to her. Elvira, of course is as mischievous - and petulant - in death as she was in life - and creates as much disruption as possible. She wants her husband back - and, since she is dead, there is only one way to achieve this. Charles - flattered by the attention cannot see the danger. Of course it all goes terribly wrong and Charles' life - and his wife's death become even more complicated.
Best performances of the night go to Maggie Childs as the brilliantly eccentric Madame Arcati, and Nicky Dexter who is hilarious as the long-suffering maid, Edith.
The set, costumes, lighting and special effects combined with strong performances from the cast combine to make this a delightful production.
Blithe Spirit runs until Sat 17th Nov. It's proving a popular choice so book your tickets in advance to be sure of a seat!
Denise Sparrowhawk
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