One of Australia’s oldest established theatre companies, Canberra Repertory Theatre, (Canberra REP), returns on 1 May to deliver audiences a rollicking time with Noël Coward’s self-described ‘improbable farce’ Blithe Spirit. A production that cheekily dances between the contemporary and classic. 

Blithe Spirit tells the story of Charles Condomine, who, as research for his latest novel, invites a self-proclaimed medium, Madame Arcati, to conduct a séance.

When she accidentally conjures up the spirit of his first wife Elvira, however, she doesn’t stand a ‘ghost of a chance.’ Through supernatural shenanigans, she creates merry mayhem for all.

Director Lachlan Houen, who made his directorial debut alongside Caitlin Baker in 2024 with Lord of the Flies, says that the importance of plays like Blithe Spirit cannot be understated.

“It’s no secret that we are currently living in a period of great instability and anxiety,” he says.

“My focus in putting on this show has been for cast, crew and audiences alike to come out with a smile on their face, chuckling the whole car ride home.”

And local actor, Alex McPherson, who plays Ruth, Condomine’s second wife, and who has been performing in Canberra REP shows since 2008, certainly seems happy to be part of this production. She is delighted to inhabit a character whom she describes as, “…a gem, with a lot of spunk and a spine of steel”.

On top of the enjoyment she’s finding in developing her character, Ms McPherson agrees that director Houen has delivered on this promise, and she is having incredible fun with her fellow cast members, crew and production team.

“What I love about what Lachlan has brought into the rehearsal room is that we’re all here to have fun and he gives us the opportunity to bring that into everything we do,” she says.

Consequently, Ms McPherson describes this particular production of Blithe Spirit as, “… an irreverently funny show, which doesn’t take itself seriously”.

“It shows a glimpse of what happens when things go horribly, horribly wrong in an unexpected way and it somehow all turns out well, where everybody gets there just desserts.

“And this is very satisfying to watch”, she says.

Blithe Spirit previews on Thursday 1 May before opening on Friday 2 May, and closes 17 May at Canberra REP Theatre, 3 Repertory Lane, Acton. Show times, further information and booking details can be found at canberrarep.org.au