By Marilyn Jozwik
Noel Coward’s comic farce “Blithe Spirit” is one of those plays that never seems to age despite being more than 80 years old. Minus politics, dated themes and references, the show breezes through the years with nary a wrinkle.
Sunset Playhouse’s presentation is fresh and stylish with a handsome, well-appointed set, sparkling costumes, mood-setting lighting and sound, as well as wonderful performances. Dustin J. Martin directs.
The story, set in 1941 Kent, England, centers around a socialite couple, crime novelist Charles (Nate Press) and his wife Ruth (Stephanie Demyun-Smith). The pair have invited friends Dr. Bradman and his wife Violet (Tom Van Gilder and Vicki Spauldiing) to a dinner party featuring a well-known local medium, the eccentric Madame Arcati (Beth Perry), who will conduct a séance in order for Charles to gather material for his latest novel.
Madame Arcati (Beth Perry) attempts to reach spirits from beyond during a dinner party seance with hosts Ruth and Charles (Stephanie Demyun-Smith and Nate Press), right, and their guests Dr. and Mrs. Bradman (Tom Van Gilder and Vicki Spaulding) in a scene from Sunset Playhouse’s “Blithe Spirit.” Rebeka Schmieder photo
Both couples look upon Arcati as an amusement and even a bit dotty. Yet, the thrilling séance produces the deceased first wife of Charles, Elvira (Tess Cinpinski), whom only he can see and hear. Her spiritual presence in the household causes his wife Ruth to question his sanity and their marriage, which leads to much hilarity and slapstick.
Director Martin has created all the elements for a successful production, especially showcasing Coward’s effervescent language. Characters use upper crust affected accents, giving emphasis to the playwright’s stellar word choices. Terms like “roguish,” “spurious,” and “churlish” get the aural spotlight. When a cheery Charles encounters his taciturn wife at breakfast and remarks “You’re very glacial this morning,” his “glacial” is unexpected and emphasized.
From the start, Press and Demyun-Smith are perfectly at ease as the wealthy couple, dressed to the nines and routinely enjoying dry martinis, giving the audience a taste of their good life. The pair interact wonderfully and their frequent sparring is especially effective.
Elvira (Tess Cinpinski) terrorizes Ruth (Stephanie Demyun-Smith) while her husband Charles (Nate Press) tries to calm her in a scene from Sunset Playhouse’s “Blithe Spirit.” Rebeka Schmieder photo
What makes the show so timeless is Coward’s insight into the dynamics of marriage with his clever, witty repartee. The barbs are batted about, often cutting with precision, as when Ruth says to Charles “You are very annoying when you try to be witty at all costs.”
But the show really takes off when Cinpinski, as Elvira -- Arcati’s “ectoplasmic revelation” -- floats her way into Charles and Ruth’s life. Cinpinski breaks out a whole toybox full of mischievous poses and pouty postures, as her pale character playfully flits and skips about the living room trying to convince Charles that her spiritual presence in his home is a good idea. She torments, teases and taunts Charles and Ruth mercilessly. The scenes in which Charles talks to both Elvira -- whom Ruth can’t see or hear -- and Ruth certainly are some verbal gymnastics for the trio of performers, and they handle the challenge nicely.
As Madame Arcati, Perry is an absolute delight. Perry takes the bucket-list role and scampers with it, inhabiting Arcati as comfortably as her loose-fitting flashy outfits. Her character’s passion is palpable, especially when she realizes the success she’s achieved as a medium. Perry’s Arcati is in perfect control of every situation, never letting her character lose faith in her talents or look silly.
Van Gilder and Spaulding are a good pairing as Charles and Ruth’s friends Dr. and Mrs. Bradman, excitedly playing along as Madame Arcati instructs them at the séance table.
The cast of Sunset Playhouse’s “Blithe Spirit” includes from left, standing, Amy Wickland, Tom Van Gilder, Vicki Spaulding and Beth Perry; seated, from left, Stephanie Demyun-Smith, Nate Press and Tess Cinpinski. Rebeka Schmieder photo
I also enjoyed Amy Wickland as Charles and Ruth’s overly eager maid Edith, who yes’ms her way through the household enthusiastically. She’s wonderful in the final moments as she becomes the key to resolving Charles’ dilemma.
Katie Johnson’s elegant set -- complete with flickering fireplace, lit wall sconces and chandeliers -- and Lisa Quinn’s striking costumes are a feast for the eyes, while sound and light (David A. Robins and Martin Yates) are spot on, helping to create captivating mystical moments.
If you go:
Who: Sunset Playhouse
What: “Blithe Spirit”
When: Through Nov. 5
Where: 700 Wall St., Elm Grove
Info/Tickets: 262-782-4430; SunsetPlayhouse.com