The Department of Theatre and Media Arts Presents “Blithe Spirit”
What do you do when the unseen becomes seen? This is the dilemma that audiences witness in the Department of Theatre and Media Arts’ spring production, “Blithe Spirit.”
Written by Noël Coward, “Blithe Spirit” follows the story of Charles Condomine, an ill-tempered novelist desperately seeking content for his next book. In hopes of gathering material to write about, Condomine hosts a séance only to accidentally summon the ghost of his late first wife, Elvira.
Referred to by the playwright as an “improbable farce in three acts,” this supernatural sensation and smash-hit comedy is one of Coward’s most revived plays. After opening in the West End in 1941, the play quickly became a hit and ran for nearly 2,000 performances. Later the same year the play was featured on Broadway for another 657 performances.
“This is a fast-paced, period comedy that is set in the late 1930s in Kent, England,” said Director Geoffrey Reynolds. “The cast is top-notch with students from four different areas within the Department of Theatre and Media Arts.” The production will feature students majoring in Acting, Music Dance Theatre, Theatre Arts Studies and Theatre Arts Education.
“I’m immensely grateful to be creating art with such hardworking, dedicated people!” said Heather Schraedel, an acting major who plays Condomine’s second wife Ruth. “Our director often puts together two quotes from the show, ‘cheers’ and ‘to the unseen,’ to create an inspiring shout of praise: ‘Cheers to the unseen!’ As I have reflected on the “unseen” things in life, I have come to appreciate their beauty. Life is made up of unseen moments and they are magnificent. God is involved in the details of our lives.”
“[‘Blithe Spirit’] is a wonderful show that will lift your soul and have you laughing out loud,” said Reynolds. “It’s full of surprises that you don't want to miss."
Tickets and Show Details:
Dates & Times: May 31, June 1, 4–8, 11–15 at 7:30 p.m. | June 1, 8, 15 at 2:00 p.m.
ASL interpretation: June 13
Post-show show discussions: June 6, 13
Location: West Campus Mainstage Theatre
Price: $22–$27
Tickets: Available online at BYU tickets
This production is suitable for children young and old but intended for ages 12 and up. We know that you know your children best and trust your judgment when planning attendance for your family.