Newnan Theatre Company raises the spirits

Not all ghosts are scary - some are downright hysterical! Noel Coward’s classic comedy “Blithe Spirit” will come to life at Newnan Theatre Company February 11 through the 27.

Charles and Ruth Condomine, a writer and his wife, hold a séance to gather information on mediums for a new book that Charles is writing. During the séance, the ghost of Charles’ first wife Elvira is “conjured up.” However, only Charles can see or hear her.

A tug-of-war begins as Ruth and Elvira fight over Charles. Elvira wants to keep Charles for herself, while Ruth struggles to figure out who Charles keeps talking to. While Ruth plots to have Elvira exorcised, Elvira tries to kill Charles so he can join her in the afterworld.

According to Director Dave Hanson, the conflict between Ruth and the “invisible’ Elvira is hilarious, culminating in one final battle that nearly brings down the house.

The cast of Blithe Spirit includes Jennifer Dorrell as Ruth, Bert Lyons as Charles, Kevin McInturf as Dr. Bradman, Kacey Pollak as Mrs. Bradman, Terri Morrison as Madam Arcatti, Brooklyn Cole as Elvira and Rachael Shaw as Edith.

“Even at the first reading, this superb cast, together with Cowards’ ridiculously funny script, had us laughing ‘til it hurt,” says Hanson.

Blithe Spirit, a Main Stage show, will be presented February 11-27. Friday and Saturday shows start at 8 p.m.; Sunday matinee performances begin at 2:30 p.m.. Tickets are $12 for Adults, $10 for Students and Senior Citizens; Special rates are available for groups of 10 or more.

Newnan Theatre Company’s 2005 Season also features “Steel Magnolias,” “Oliver!,” “Noises Off,” “Wit,” “Fences,” “The Diary of Anne Frank” and much more. Purchase a season ticket and save over 25 percent; they’re available at the theatre box office or on the NTC website at www.newnantheatre.com.

Newnan Theatre Company is located at 24 First Avenue in Newnan. For reservations and more information, call 770-683-6282.