Blithe Spirit

Noel Coward became one of the best known names in all aspects of entertainment during the last century. He was a keen observer of life, with a somewhat waspish wit, and although his plays were set mainly in the homes and lifestyles of the upper echelons of society his works seem to appeal across the spectrum of theatregoers.

In Blithe Spirit Charles Condimine, a writer, is seeking information and inspiration for his next project so to further that cause he invites the local medium, Madam Arcati, to conduct a seance. She  inadvertantly conjures the ghost of Elvira, the former Mrs Condimine, whose appearance (since he has remarried) causes havoc and dissension within the household with a plethora of comedic situations.

Hardingstone Players are a hardworking group, well established in the local commnity. All those on stage showed good understanding of their characters and this was a brave attempt at a very wordy piece. There was evidence of good, clear direction but, unfortunately, at the performance which I saw, so many prompts were needed that it really hindered the continuity of the storyline and the pace of delivery. However, I felt that much time and effort had gone into the production and we all know that these things sometimes happen - it's a bit like the domino effect! But nevertheless everyone soldiered on! And I felt that, in spite of this, the audience enjoyed their evening.

Congratulations to the set designer who had done a really good job - the set reflected the period well. The sound and lighting were also well designed and the backstage crew were extremely efficient. The inclusion of some of Noel Coward's songs sung by the master himself added to the ambience of the evening.

I hope the rest of your performances ran smoothly. I'm sure your audiences appreciated all your hard work and enjoyed the chance to see a play which is not performed very often these days.  

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