The final production for the 2013-2014 season at La Porte Little Theatre will be Noel Coward’s classic comedy, “Blithe Spirit” directed by Susie Richter. Performance dates are: May 16th, 17th, & 18th, and May 23rd, 24th, & 25th. Evening performance time is 7:30p.m., with Sunday matinees starting at 2:00p.m.
Noel Coward wrote his comic masterpiece about ghosts during the 1940’s when he felt the world needed a reason to laugh. It took him less than a week to write it, working at it for hours every day. The plot centers around Charles Condomine, portrayed by Jeff Hill, who is a novelist writing a book about a homicidal medium. He wants to learn the “tricks of the trade” and so he and his wife, Ruth, played by Sandy Gleim, invite Madam Arcati, played by Lucy Vergo, to dinner. Dinner guests also include their neighbors, Dr. and Mrs. Bradman, portrayed by Kim Haddad and Robert Richter. A séance is held, and the ghost of Charles’ first wife, Elvira, played by Patti Martin, is inadvertently called back to the land of the living. Only Charles can see and hear Elvira, which is very frustrating for poor Ruth. Trying to keep the home running smoothly is their maid, Edith, portrayed by Amanda Sixbury.
La Porte Little Theatre is located at the corners of 3rd and “A” Sts. In La Porte. Reservations are recommended by calling 219.362.5113. The theatre building is accessible to those with disabilities. Historical note: this is the third time “Blithe Spirit” had been presented at La Porte Little Theatre, the last time being in 1975.