By Joseph Szalinski
Back in the day, folks used to host parties that featured seances, which were sessions where a psychic or medium conversed with the dead. There’d be food, drinks, and merriment. A much-loved pastime. So why is there an issue when I go on benders in local graveyards and scream at headstones? Same thing in my eyes. But if you prefer the more socially acceptable approach, do yourself a favor and check out.
The Red Barn Players’ production of Blithe Spirit, the last show of their 71st season, is now running at The Red Barn Theatre in Fombell, PA, directed by Shelly Cary and produced by Bonnie Nolan.
The brainchild of celebrated playwright Noël Coward, Blithe Spirit has been staged for decades, both in its original form and as a musical on Broadway, as well as in a couple of film adaptations. Charles Condomine is a novelist whose upcoming work explores the occult. To better understand these matters, Charles enlists the services of Madame Arcati, a medium. Things go as planned until a song is played that summons the ghost of Charles’ deceased first wife, an arrangement that doesn’t really please his current spouse.
This classic comedy sports quite the cast. Travis Myers-Arrigoni is fantastic as the wily wordsmith, Charles Condomine. He effortlessly effuses charm, making audience members slightly sympathetic toward a character gunning for Henry the VIII’s spot in the dead-wife department. Ruth, his occasional foil and current wife, is given a humorous portrayal thanks to Andrea Cary-Spaziani. Armed with a rationality that stands in stark contrast to the ridiculous antics afoot, Cary-Spaziani still manages to make her character as amusing as her more nonsensical counterparts. Elvira, not the TV show host, but rather the aforementioned dead wife, is wonderfully brought to life, err…, death, by Danielle Sanchez. Combining an undeniable presence with a cultivated chemistry with castmates, she excels by herself and in more ensemble scenes. Elizabeth Danko splits sides as Madame Arcati, the evening’s major attraction. Every time she takes the stage, the audience howls with laughter. With funny physicality and a silly giggle, she lends hilarity to every exchange. Lana Holcomb is delightful as Edith, Charles, and Ruth’s maid. Frank Baker adds mirthful layers to the methodical Dr. Bradman, a friend of Charles and Ruth. Director Shelly Cary stepped in for Ellen Kalik as Mrs. Bradman for opening night. Despite the last-minute change-up, it didn’t affect the show’s energy or engagement. Rounding out the cast is the talented Lily Sanchez as Daphne, a spirit who helps Madame Arcati contact other entities.
The show’s technical elements also support the strong performances. Most notable are the efforts of the set design and construction team consisting of Steven Burnworth, Kim Smolka, John Brenner, Paul Brenner, Robert S. Hazen, Tom Bickert, and Gary Patterson. While impressive from beginning to end, the team shows off their ingenuity with standout effects near the end of the story. Stage manager Kathy Patterson does double duty with costumes, helping to create a satisfying look for the characters. Lighting operator Mark Beighey’s lighting design perfectly accentuates scenes. Sarah Campbell expertly manages publicity photos that make up Alena Kucan’s awesome photo display board.
The Red Barn Theatre is a terrific venue. Rustic, cozy, and home to entertaining productions, any visit there is sure to be an enjoyable experience. Grab a concession, enter the intermission raffle, and take in stunning views of the sun-dappled property; there are plenty of ways to enrich your visit.
The Red Barn Players are a tremendous troupe located in Beaver County. They curate exceptional seasons and foster a welcoming atmosphere at their venue. Every member is committed to delivering quality art and entertainment, whether behind the scenes or in the spotlight. With their 72nd season beginning next spring, it’ll be curious to see what kind of productions await audiences in a few months.
-JS
Blithe Spirit continues its run September 23rd-26th at Red Barn Theatre in Fombell, PA. For tickets, click here.
