Blithe Spirit, written by Noel Coward, is currently playing at Salisbury Playhouse. We sent Andy to see it. Here is what he thought.
Premise: Novelist Charles Condomine’s quest for character inspiration for his next book takes an unexpected turn when he and his wife Ruth invite eccentric medium Madame Arcati to hold a séance. Inadvertently conjuring up the ghost of his first wife, Elvira, Arcati lands Charles and Ruth in an unlikely love triangle where life and the afterlife collide.
Blithe Spirit is a very funny play with moments that will cause you to laugh out loud, either from the dialogue, some physical comedy or the circumstances being portrayed.
The acting is sharp, with good comedic timing, and all those on stage deliver engaging and humorous performances. There is lovely physical comedy from the outset, courtesy of Gabriella Foley, who plays the maid Edith, and a lovely confidence from Bridgette Amofah, who plays Consomine's deceased wife, Alvira.
Adam Jackson-Smith, Jenny Rainsford and Bridgette Amofah (Image: Pamela Raith Photography)
Adam Jackson-Smith brilliantly holds the play together, as we watch his character go through various stages of arrogance, shock, worry, and fear. Jackson-Smith doesn't miss a beat in delivering his standout comedic moments. Alongside him is his second wife, Ruth, played by Jenny Rainsford, who is also very good with some hilarious moments.
Susan Wooldridge brings to life a delightful character in Madame Arcati; there is a twinkle in her eye at times, which very much appears to be an actor enjoying their work in playing a mischievous and funny character.
Susan Wooldridge as Madame Arcati (Image: Pamela Raith Photography)
The set looks brilliant, with all the action taking place in one room, featuring some clever touches that largely reveal themselves at the very end of the performance. It's interesting enough without being too distracting from the action which is unfolding on stage.
The play delivers on many levels and provides around two and a half hours of entertainment (including an interval) with plenty of laughs and some excellent acting, making it a fantastic way to spend your evening.
Blithe Spirit runs until Saturday, 25th October at Salisbury Playhouse, with tickets available from £12, with BSL Signed/Captioned and Audio Described performances also available - book your tickets here - https://www.wiltshirecreative.co.uk/events/blithe-spirit
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