Spirit Level

Too many spoilers to go deep into the plot, but basically when the famous crime writer Jack Cameron and his wife Susie drown in a boating accident, they are refused entry into heaven – Jack is atheist –  they return to haunt the country cottage where they lived. Life is dull. Their only pleasure comes from spooking the estate agent and frightening away any would-be tenants. 

This was a clever well written play by Pam Valentine and played in front of an excellent set with French doors to the rear and one side entrance, set modern day with suitable props and well lit . Scene changes were backed by some suitable music and some effective sound effects were also used.

Jack and Susie were well played by David Vas and Becky Weir, experiencing a somewhat strained relationship. The letting agent Mark Webster played by Hugh Raymer had obviously experienced previous tenants leaving prematurely and stressed that if two new potential tenants – Simon and Flic Willis – left early due to ‘problems’, they would have to pay the balance of any rent due. Hugh was very much the pedantic agent, straightening the wall pictures prior to the viewing and Simon and Flic (Alex Fitzgerald and Daisy Wood) were keen to take the cottage, particularly when Simon discovered his author idol Jack Cameron previously occupied the cottage. Most of the action took place whilst Jack and Susie were also present and each couple were often holding conversations at the same time. This was very well handled by all five players, including moving around the room quite naturally without getting in each-others way. An excellent piece of direction by debut director Steve Willis.

Flic likes the idea that Jack and Susie might be looking over them and gradually Jack and Susie like the idea too and this came over with warmth. Meanwhile Flic’s mother Marcia Bradshaw played by Gillie Cowley turns up and as anticipated, cannot resist asking Simon if he has entered paid employment yet. She would really like to see Simon and Flic split up and her stuffiness was well portrayed by Gillie. A Guardian Angel arrives (Dawn Turner) and believes Jack should help Simon with his writing and sets up an amusing way of communicating this successfully. Dawn dressed in tweeds played a natural no nonsense Angel very well.

We learn that Flic is pregnant and there are moments when she feels a presence and looks to step out of Susie‘s way. There is a scene when Jack and Susie reminisce which came over very well. Also, when Simon and Flic have a row, Susie is able to ‘speak’ to them both to forgive and forget. Another touching moment amongst many amusing ones. Probably the biggest laugh of them all was reserved for when Marcia ‘under a spell’ lost her inhibitions and launched herself at Mark Webster the letting agent following which Jack, Susie and Simon fell about laughing which was very contagious. Mark was also well teased when Jack moved some of the Christmas decorations around as if by magic!

By now Jack and Susie have become quite attached to Simon and Flic and share some concern for the baby, so much so that Jack gets down on his knees and genuinely prays for the baby survival. David was both amusing and moving and so Jack now believes there is a God after all. Consequently, the Guardian Angel returns and once again Jack and Susie are invited to the Pearly Gates and she confides in them both about the successful future for Simon and Flic.

This play was funny and thought provoking and generally taken at a good pace, particularly the overlapping of the couple’s conversations and I enjoyed it. Thank you once again for the usual warm welcome from the members.

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