‘Blithe Spirit’ is a ‘Lively’ Production

×

Expand

Photo courtesy Sunset Playouse

Sunset Playouse ‘Blithe Spirit’

Sunset Playouse's ‘Blithe Spirit’

Blithe Spirit, performed this fall by the Sunset Playhouse in Elm Grove, is full of dry humor and ghoulish drama. The production relies on a combination of classic screwball comedy and miscommunication tropes to deliver a witty tribute to the original 1940s era play. 

Blithe Spirit features a central conflict featuring leading man, Charles Condomine (portrayed by Nate Press), when he accidentally summons his late wife in a seance. His first wife, Elvira, is determined to make life difficult for Condomine and his second wife, Ruth, (Stephanie Demyun Smith). Deymun Smith was a particular stand-out of the evening, capable of delivering both bold comedic timing and over-the-top hysterics in a matter of minutes.

The Sunset Playhouse production was expert in its execution, worldbuilding, and eccentricity. The story is a one-of-a-kind, with many zany characters and thorough dialogue. Much of the language, however, stays true to the perspective of its times, the 1940s. Authenticity to the nature of the period piece is an emphasized component of the show. 

The Sunset Playhouse also does an impressive job with the set and makeup design. The silver, spooky face of each spirit, lively set, and themed lighting set the tone for this quirky show. A particularly interesting relationship arc was between Ruth, the second wife, and Elvira, the first, played by the talented, sometimes bubbly Tess Cinpinski. Watching the two women weave between each other through each progressing scene and become increasingly closer is a stimulating part of experiencing the show. 

Blithe Spirit is a period piece with an unconventional plot that is worth seeing for the high caliber local actors and stage production. 

Through Nov. 5 at Sunset Playhouse. For tickets and times, visit sunsetplayhouse.com