Fun on the dark side

I HAVE always had a soft spot for Blithe Spirit. Not only does it possess its author's -- Noel Coward -- wonderful wit but a terrific sense of fun.

It is a mischievous play that gives an insight into life in Coward's now long lost world of social etiquette and behaviour.

Clairvoyant, Madam Arcati, wonderfully played by Ann Rye, is invited to the home of Charles Condomine. Unfortunately, the eccentric psychic conjures up the return of Charles' deceased first wife, the caustic tongued, and mischievous, Elvira.

She proceeds to wreak havoc on Charles and his second wife, Ruth -- with far reaching consequences.

The wonder of this play is in its beautiful language. The barbed comments that flow naturally from one character to another, never sounding stuffy or dated.

This is a feel-good play, with dark undertones that ensure it never disappoints in being too flimsy.

And it is in the way Bolton Octagon's cast batted the lines to and fro without hesitation, or stumbling, that helped this classic's reputation remain intact.

Mark Hayford is fantastic as the unfortunate Charles, possessing a certain charm. Either side of him are his snarling wives.

First there is Bridget Fry's portrayal of Elvira the first wife. Undoubtedly this is the part that has to be the most fun to play and boy does Bridget's performance make the most of that fact. Her eyes sparkle in the delight of it all, and her expressions are terrific.

All this goes towards making her sense of mischief contagious among the audience. Angela Sims is equally as excellent as her nemesis, the more straight-laced Ruth. The three dimensional set is perfect to set the scene, and the costumes are of the high standards one has come to expect from the Octagon.

This is a play which offers great entertainment from a sparkling cast, bubbling over with personality. I challenge anyone to leave the Octagon having watched this play without a smile on their face.

Beverly Greenberg