Blithe Spirit

It was to a somewhat rejigged Bear Pit theatre that I returned to see Second Thoughts’ latest production, Noel Coward’s evergreen classic Blithe Spirit.  Since my last visit, the auditorium has been altered from an ‘in the round’ presentation to a more traditional ‘end on’ layout.  So it seemed appropriate for Second Thoughts’ first production in the new arrangement to be of a classic that was designed for, and works well in, this format.

The plot of Blithe Spirit is centred on the character of Charles Condomine, a writer who, seeking background information for his next book, invites a medium round to dinner.  The ensuing séance led by the eccentric Madame Arcati and attended by Charles, his second wife Ruth and their friends the Bradmans seems to pass off without much incident beyond a bit of knocking and table rocking.  But the spirit of Charles’s first wife Elvira has been accidentally summoned from the ‘other side’ and she proceeds to wreak havoc.  It’s not until her machinations have led to Ruth also passing on and returning as a ghost that the hapless Madame discovers that the source of psychic power is really the Condomine’s servant, Edith, and some sort of order is finally restored as the restless spirits are returned to the other side. 

This is a great play – surely one of Coward’s best – and the performers grabbed its comic opportunities with both hands.  Adam Schumacher was a very strong Charles Condomine, a very assured presence on stage, with a good ear for the humour in Coward’s dialogue.  Alongside him, Ruth Jones was nicely harassed, and increasingly exasperated, as Charles’s second wife, also called Ruth (no doubt that made rehearsals easier!)  Completing the central trio, Georgina Monk was a smilingly mischievous presence as his flighty first wife, Elvira. 

The role of Madame Arcati was played with relish by Christa Gaskell.  This was a busy, confident portrayal, well enunciated and with good energy.  It was easy to believe that this rather hippyish, dotty woman could unleash the chaos that engulfs the Condomines!  As her fellow (albeit accidental) psychic Edith, Chloe Jane Wiltshire was suitably hurried and nervous, and did some nicely ethereal singing during the denouement, which brought an unexpectedly spooky touch to the scene. 

Last but not least, Bernard Hall and Dorothy Barlow were just right as Dr and Mrs Bradman, the Condomines’ party guests.  With the Doctor’s forthright blustering and his wife’s trenchant yet understated wit, they made a very believable couple. 

The cast did a very good job of keeping the pace up throughout – important for such a long play, although I think there might have been a bit of paraphrasing from time to time!  The show was ably directed by Nic Walsh, adapting well to the new layout by making good use of the space, although I wasn’t sure why Elvira was so regularly sent to stand by the piano, right at the edge of the acting area.

There were some nice costumes on display – I particularly liked Madame Arcati’s collection of bohemian outfits, and Charles never looked anything less than dapper.  Elvira also had a nicely floaty look (I was pleased to see the hair and make-up team had not completely ‘greyed’ her), but I was a bit surprised that Ruth was not afforded a costume or make up change once she passed on, to more clearly delineate ‘ghost’ Ruth from the living equivalent.

The set was simple but effective, with a nice collection of period furniture that set the scene very well.  Changes were calmly and smoothly executed by the backstage team.  The conclusion to this play, when the spirits of Ruth and Elvira are let loose on the Condomine living room, is always a challenge to any backstage team and I’m happy to say that the Second Thoughts crew pulled it off!  I was genuinely surprised by the little trophy jumping off the mantelpiece, which also collapsed dramatically right at the end.  Other effects such as the voice of Daphne and the various table knockings were convincingly delivered by the cast and crew. 

My thanks to Second Thoughts for their customary warm welcome, and for sharing their version of this classic play.  I enjoyed it very much, and so clearly did the audience, who laughed and gasped along at the twists and turns of the plot.  Well done all, and I look forward to seeing you again in 2024. 

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