Laughter and spontaneous applause can be heard emanating from The Phoenix Theatre each evening during the current run of "Blithe Spirit", the spooky comedy written over 50 years ago by the Master, Noel Coward.

This play will never lose its appeal and David Edwards and his cast held the audience spellbound. The set and props were 'out of this world', and there was most appropriate and amusing use of the lighting and 'noises off'.

Joanna Hicks' portrayal of Madame Acarte was sublime - hilariously larger than life, with a touch of Margaret Rutherford at times. She lit up the stage whenever she appeared, her facial expressions and extravagant gestures underlined her dottiness, and Natalie Morgan, costumes, had enjoyed herself with the mad outfits.

Andy Petersen presented a charming, easy-going and attractive Charles Condomine, it was easy to see why his wives were fighting over him. In turn, he was alarmed and amused by his wives, his agitation mounting as their jibes got to him.

Charles' interaction with his wife, Ruth, played with sensitivity and good timing by Annette O'Brien, and his growing acceptance of Elvira, Sheryl Netley, was skilfully revealed.

Sheryl, (her costume another triumph from Natalie Morgan), brilliantly expressed Elvira's capricious nature and love of mischief. It was a testament to good direction and the acting that the audience readily believed that no one could see Elvira except Charles.

Phoenix stalwarts, Howard Owen, and Ann Stirrup, sketched Dr and Mrs Bradman with their usual excellent skill, and Emily Banks, was appealing and funny as the maid, Edith.

In the interval there were some visitors asking about available tickets, I hope they were lucky enough to get some. My young companion, Connor, aged 10, was laughing all the time and at the end he said: "Oh has it finished. I wanted them to go on!" Congratulations must go to the whole of the Phoenix company.

Chris Robertson