Blithe Spirit

Originally billed as 'an improbable farce in three acts' when it premiered during the London Blitz of 1941, one cannot help but reflect on just how far away this play resides - from a typical farce. In fact it seems farcical to call this deliciously bitter, acerbically, witty script a farce. While the paranormal premise leans into the absurd – this is not your run of the mill comedy of errors.

Place this 76 year old script in the right hands – and it remains uncommonly, ridiculously sophisticated by anyone's standards.

This production's attention to detail – from the charming set and stylish costumes, to the deceptively effortless performances from its leads – really brought the piece alive in most satisfying way. It is directed with obvious respect for the snappy dialogue - none of the characterisations went over the top. With meticulous under-playing, this so-called farce (I really struggle with this genre label) feels as fresh and cunning as ever.

Leading from the front, Brendon Flynn and Madeline Parker inhabit their characters with aplomb. Extraordinarily gifted young Parker never fails to impress. Her timeless, charismatic appeal is truly reminiscent of Claudette Colbert - and the layers she extracts from the ostensibly 'stiff' character of Ruth make her performance all the more compelling. Flynn coasts through the many moods of George – without ever telegraphing a single subtext. Sally Sturgess' portrays of Madame Arcati as the warmest of ditzes, Rachel Phillis and Morgan Lazaro could not be more charming as Dr and Mrs Bradman, and Jess Davis' is adorably on-point as Edith the Maid. Which brings us to that ghostly guest of honour – Elvira. Catie Gillett's pouty, petulance combines nicely with her soft pink tresses, flowing gown and clever lighting effects – which draws the audience into the ethereal realm without a hint of gaudiness.

Coward himself would be underwhelmingly approving of this production. Well – any actual displays of loving emotion would be deemed too vulgar old boy!

Rose Cooper

Image: Sally Sturgess as Madame Arcarti and Brendon Flynn as Charles. Photography by James Beggs Imaging.