It was impossible to be casually indifferent to Blithe Spirit, in the same way that a lit Bunsen burner can't be ignored by a beaker in a school lab.

The performance wonderfully portrayed the fun, witty and captivating nature of Noel Coward's 1941 play, and brought it vividly back to life for a current day audience.

Not only was the stage set good, it paid particular attention to detail, lending the performance an authenticity that beguiled the audience throughout. From the flowing staircase and séance table; down to the delightful detail and attention paid to the costumes and shoes: everything enhanced the production.

The first act tempted and led me into the second half when the play grew into a comically hysterical haunting-fest causing the audience to chuckle out loudly. I could but join in as the plot unravelled in front of a dithering and confused Charles (Robert Bathurst) who was haunted by two dead wives battling for his affections.

The audience soaked up the atmospheric era of it all and the echoing laughter was infectious.

The sound quality and projection of voices were first class, as would be expected of the experienced cast and the expertise of MK Theatre.

Brilliant and believable performances came from the cast which included; Hermione Norris of TV's recent 'Outcasts' fame, Ruthie Henshall and Robert Bathurst, who lit the stage with their performances and further projected the gaiety of the era.

My only disappointment came as a result my feeling that  the Medium Madame Arcati (as played by Alison Steadman) had room to be a little more eccentric, as portrayed by Margaret Rutherford in the 1945 film version of the play. However, the production overall was intriguing, ghostly, entertaining and fun - a must-see!

When the final curtain came down upon a well received and enjoyed play, the appreciation of the audience, which filled every seat in the theatre, was expressed in a roar of highly grateful applause.

- Nancy Rooke

15/02/2011