Blithe Spirit

The Rivers Suite in Napier University’s Craiglockart Campus was the perfect setting for Noel Cowards classic comedy ‘Blithe Spirit’. An elegant Victorian style drawing room with its large bay window and a comfortable seating capacity for around 50 allowed the audience to be an almost integral part of the production in this intimate setting. The fairly small playing area was used to advantage with a minimal set and props perfectly suited to the era. Effective lighting and sound effects helped create an almost supernatural ambience in this ghostly farce.

Ahmed Masood Nabi Nur appeared very much at ease in the role of Charles, a successful novelist who has invited two friends and a medium to conduct a seance so that he can learn more about the occult in order to assist him in the writing of his new novel. We are convinced of his turmoil and bewilderment in trying to cope with the unexpected return of his dead wife who only he can see whilst trying to convince his wife that all is not as she perceives things to be. His lengthy dialogue was delivered with conviction.

Tabitha Gibb was well cast as Ruth, Charles’ wife, a little domineering but absolutely bemused at her husband’s behaviour. Her sense of frustration and confusion was well portrayed. Joining the dinner party were Dr. and Mrs.Bradman. Wag and Samuela Noumtchuet worked well together as a steady and supportive couple trying to figure out what was going on.

Jac Wheble gave a brilliant interpretation of the somewhat eccentric medium Madame Arcati. With excellent comedic timing and very decisive delivery of her lines she absolutely conveyed the eccentricity of the character.

When Madam Arcati turns on the gramophone to play ‘Always’ Charles’ first wife Elvira returns from the dead in an attempt to disrupt Charles’ marriage. Irena Komunjer looked quite ethereal in her silver, floating gown as she spirited her way teasing and causing havoc. Her excellent facial expressions and mannerisms all added to the characterisation.

Edith, the maid in the house, was played with a real innocence by Jenna Donoghue who successfully brought out the comedy in the role with her quick often quirky moves and speedy dialogue.

The final scene when Charles believes all is well was indeed quite spooky as books fell over, curtains swayed and vases broke as the ghosts of his two wives cause havoc in the room.

This is a very wordy play and the cast did very well in keeping things moving along at a good pace. Costumes had been well thought out and perfectly suited the period.

I thoroughly enjoyed this most amusing production which had been well directed creating a real feel of the supernatural. Most entertaining.

 

 

 

 

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