Blithe Spirit
Woodstock Playhouse
July 24, 2021
Photo courtesy of Woodstock Playhouse
The Woodstock Playhouse is back with a full summer
season! Their production of Blithe
Spirit is delightfully entertaining.
Director Randy Conti has brought together a talented cast who capture Noel Coward’s
humor, creating a highly enjoyable evening of fun and surprises.
When Charles (played by Patrick Sharpe) needs to conduct research for his new novel about a psychic, he and his wife Ruth (played be Brooke Sterling) invite Madame Arcati (played by Lynda Sales) to a dinner party. To round out the evening, they also invite two skeptical friends of theirs, Dr. and Mrs. Bradman (played by Alex Gossard and Jenna Robinson). When Madame Arcati falls into a trance, Charles hears a familiar voice. Since no one else hears it, they all believe Madam Arcati is a fake. Charles has a different perspective of Madam Arcati’s powers when the ghost of his deceased first wife, Elvira (played by Gena Heylock) appears and begins to wreak havoc on his present marriage.
Gena Heylock is enchanting as Elvira. The chemistry between her and Patrick Sharpe is electric. The sparks really fly when Brooke Sterling joins their scenes. These three skilled actors make the most of Noel Coward’s rhythm and timing to the increase tension and build each scene to a dramatically funny high point.
Photo courtesy of Woodstock Playhouse
Blithe Spirit played for only
one weekend, but if you are planning a trip upstate New York this summer, be
sure to include a visit to Woodstock Playhouse.
Their next show is Sweet Charity from July 30 – August 15. Due to Covid restrictions, seating is
sporadic throughout the theater, so get you tickets in advance.
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