Blithe Spirit at the Troy Civic Theatre

Sunday afternoon I went to the Troy Civic Theatre's production of Noel Coward's Blithe Spirit. I thoroughly enjoyed it. This is the first time I have seen Blithe Spirit since I was a sophomore in college where the theater majors put on the play. All I could remember was that I had laughed a lot at the shenanigans that resulted when a man's former wife came back and haunted him and his present wife. Because the second wife could not see or hear the spirit of the first wife, the poor husband was between a rock and a hard place, no matter what he said to either wife.

All of the actors did well at their roles. As always, Tina Hayes as Elvira, the first wife, now dead, made good use of her mobile face. She doesn't have to say a word to express her opinions and feelings. Krissy Barker, as Charles' present wife, was a good contrast in character. Betty Scission, as Madame Arcati, managed to be serious and funny at the same time. I have seen Betty in other roles. This one was entirely different from any of the others. Caleb Mcgill, as the husband, was seriously distraught by the whole situation. Some of the roles were a bit of a challenge such as Jackie Chamberlin's part as Violet Bradman. I know she is really nothing like Violet. The marceled waves in her hair were a wonder. The theater is lucky to have Barry Van Kirk, a professional hair stylist and make-up expert, as one of their volunteers. Below is the list of the Production Crew. You will note that the actors aren't prima donnas. They do whatever is needed to create an interesting play. If you live in the Troy area, I hope you plan to go to Blithe Spirit this coming weekend. You will laugh and laughter is good for our souls.