Blithe Spirit
A 'spirited' performance earns
warm plaudits all round
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Photos: Chris Higgins |
Review by John Hague
Forgive the obvious pun, but Bishop Monkton Entertainments Group gave a 'spirited' performance of Noel Coward’s comic masterpiece Blithe Spirit presented at the Village Hall over three nights.
It was a thoroughly well presented performance of a difficult play for amateur actors, carefully directed by Kathryn Bethel and produced by Sheila Parsons.
The set, lighting and timing were to a professional standard, and the acting, particularly Geoff Dickinson as Charles and Tina Harper as an impressive Madame Arcati, while Pauline Beecroft twinkled and amused in the short scenes as and when she appeared as Edith the maid. Alison Holley as the ghost Elvira was quite suitably scary, lit by eerie green lighting whenever she “appeared” and Emma Oates also performed well in her leading role.
Other roles were played by Richard Harper and Maureen Kinnear.
Bob Upton and Freya Higgins were the stage management team together with Chris Higgins, in fact everyone involved (all 27 of them) are to be congratulated, from props to front of house.
I have one minor criticism in that it was difficult at times to hear the dialogue. A little more projection is needed from all concerned next time. The old adage of “talk to the clock at the back of the hall” applies, but the village is really looking forward to the next production by this talented group.
Photo: Basil Birchall
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Those we have to thank ........
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