Blithe Spirit

Canberra REP’s Blithe Spirit is a joyful production—joyful to watch, and clearly joyful for the cast to perform. The energy and enthusiasm radiate from the stage, drawing the audience into Noël Coward’s deliciously witty world.

Standout performances come from Alex McPherson as the sharp, grounded Ruth Condomine and Winsome Ogilvie as the mischievous Elvira. Both command the stage with charisma and precision, though the entire cast works hard to bring Coward’s eccentric characters to life. Peter Holland has the rather thankless duty of playing the straight man to the wildness, but manages to build bite into his portrayal of Charles Condamine. 

Director Lachlan Houen presents the play in a mostly traditional style with a few surprising modern twists. Some choices—like the unexpected but cheeky use of Lady Gaga’s “Bad Romance”—add a zany charm and provoke genuine laughter. Others, such as the inclusion of an exercise bike, feel less integrated and occasionally draw focus from the central action. Still, Houen’s playful approach, including fourth-wall breaks and side-stage antics, mostly enhances the humour and pacing.

The set is elegant and richly detailed, a true visual treat. It provides a dynamic stage for the actors to inhabit their characters both physically and emotionally. The lighting and sound design are especially effective, shifting the atmosphere from eerie séance to spirited farce with seamless precision.

A special mention must go to Liv Boddington as Edith, whose delightful performance and perfectly timed interactions with the audience earn well-deserved laughs and anchor the production’s self-aware tone.

Blithe Spirit is an entertaining and imaginative take on a classic, buoyed by strong performances, playful direction, and a beautifully realised design.

Laura Hayden

Photographer: Eve Murray