REVIEW: Blithe Spirit
Experience an other-worldly comedy about death at Salisbury Playhouse this autumn
Written by Noël Coward, in less than a week during the second world war, Blithe Spirit is a hilarious farce, entertaining audiences over eight decades on, with its witty lines and engaging characters. If you’re looking for a cosy night of laughter in Wiltshire’s leading producing theatre, this production is not to be missed!
When author Charles Condomine (Adam Jackson-Smith) needs inspiration for his next book, he invites local spiritualist medium, Madame Arcati (Susan Wooldridge) into his home to conduct a séance. In the company of Charles, his wife Ruth (Jenny Rainsford), Dr Bradman (Michael Cusick) and Mrs Bradman (Fiona Tong), Madame Arcati accidentally summons the ghost of Charles’ first wife Elvira (Bridgette Amofah), and an extra-ordinary love triangle ensues. Gabriella Foley as Edith adds another layer of humour to the story as the Condomine’s nervous maid.
Michael Cusick, Jenny Rainsford, Susan Wooldridge, Adam Jackson-Smith, Fiona Tong - 📸 Pamela Raith
Set in the 1930s, Terry Parsons’ set and costume design are exquisite, with incredible attention to detail. This comes as no surprise as this veteran designer has been working in the field for 57 years, crafting sets and costumes for theatres around the world. Transporting you to a delightful front room adorned with opulent Art Deco design, the bespoke set was, as always, made on-site at Salisbury Playhouse’s workshop by skilled artisans, as were the costumes.
Whilst the cast work brilliantly together, Wooldridge’s Madame Arcati is the true standout of the show. Farcical and wildly eccentric, the peculiar psychic medium is at the heart of the hilarity and chaotic events in the play.
Jenny Rainsford, Bridgette Amofah, Adam Jackson-Smith - 📸 Pamela Raith
Blithe Spirit was the second play to run at the Garrison Theatre, which we know as Salisbury Playhouse today, a testament to this comic invention that stands the test of time.
Whether you’re a Salisbury local or visiting the area, Blithe Spirit is the perfect way to enjoy an evening of theatrical fun. Grab your tickets and get ready to laugh!
📅 02 – 25 Oct
📍 Salisbury Playhouse
🎟 Tickets from £12
⏳ Approx. 2 hours 30 mins (including interval)
🎭 Ages 12+