BLITHE SPIRIT

A really good first time Directorship, and one which I felt brought new life to The Square Drama Circle. 

The box set looked clean and interesting and was nicely dressed.  A few too many blackouts for me, I can understand the delineation between scenes, but perhaps some background music would have kept the audience interest going.  I liked the rotating Square Drama logo gobo – it made for before performance interest.

Technically there were some good effects, including items jumping off shelves etc, which was very well-accomplished, and I thought the lighting for the séance was particularly good, as we were able to see the actors faces very clearly.  Projection was good throughout. 

Costumes were mainly good, although I did feel that Ruth would have worn something a little more dressy for the dinner party in the opening scene, and Elvira’s outfit needed ironing, but those were a minor points!!

Connor Michie (Charles Condomine) created a particularly good character for his first time in a lead role, the confidence was there, good interaction with Ruth and Elvira, overall a well drawn portrayal.

Donna Fletcher (Ruth Condomine) – a revelation, as Donna has only covered smaller parts before, and for this she gave us a well-rounded, at times passionate performance, which I was very impressed with – very well done.

Tammy Bradley (Elvira) got the ethereal quality of the ghostly visitor, along with a nice dose of wickedness and a flirty persona – a really good portrayal.

Bridget Calvert (Madame Arcati) – a very well-accomplished characterisation, the best thing I have seen Bridget do, a big, wordy part which she attacked with gusto.  Nicely achieved.

Kieran Pritchard (Dr Bradman), showed a newly acquired maturity in this part, which was good to see, his progression over the years has been great to witness.

Martina Vince (Mrs Bradman) a new face to the Society, gave her character a good forceful edge, but showing a softer side on occasion, a very good addition to The Square Drama Circle family.

Leo Morawski (Edward – the butler) created a rather unsure, bumbling servant well, a good contrast to the other cast members.

Overall a very good production, which I feel marked a step up in The Square Drama Circle’s journey, well-directed, good characterisations and good technical all went to make a very enjoyable evening’s entertainment.  Thank you for your hospitality, I was very well looked after by John, and great cake as always!

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