Blithe Spirit

The narrative of this ever popular Noel Coward play is well known, and the action unfolds with the majority of the audience knowing the ending before we get there.  However, the journey to that ending was managed commendably by the seven strong cast drawn from Pickering Musical Society who are better known for their musical concerts, pantomimes and musical theatre than plays.  The First Act had pace and the comic timing had been well considered.  Unfortunately, this was not altogether maintained through into the Second Act.  Perhaps resulting from a Three Act play being presented in two, but also due to some insecurity in the deliverance of lines.  I am sure another week of rehearsals would have banished those ghosts.  That said, the wonderful Coward script was delivered in clipped Received Pronunciation throughout, intensifying the humour. Only Suzanne Booker as the maid Edith broke the silver spooned acidity and provided a lighter tone with her regional accent. Michelle Carter gave the performance of the night maintaining her depiction of the strong-willed and determined second wife Ruth, even in death!  Jenny Dulson as the wonderfully eccentric medium Madame Arcati also maintained her illusion throughout.  The overall atmosphere and presentation of the show was well conceived and executed, with superbly presented costumes, a generously dressed open stage set and a sympathetic lighting plot.  

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