Auditions - Blithe Spirit
Written by Noël Coward
Directed James Shawcross
No. of performances: Seven
Performance dates: Monday 07 - Saturday 12 September, incl. Saturday matinee
Audition date: Saturday 28 February, 1 - 3pm
Cast size: 7
Accents: Neutral / RP preferred
Period: Late 1930s–40s England
Note: Strong comic timing and clarity of speech are essential throughout.
A sparkling Noël Coward comedy of love, jealousy, and the supernatural.
Prepare for an evening of sparkling wit, supernatural mischief, and ghostly chaos in Noël Coward’s classic comedy Blithe Spirit. When novelist Charles Condomine invites the eccentric medium Madame Arcati to conduct a séance as research for his new book, he gets far more than he bargained for - the ghost of his first wife, Elvira, returns from the beyond! Much to the dismay of his very-much-alive second wife, Ruth, Elvira isn’t planning to leave quietly.
As séances spiral out of control and tempers rise from both sides of the grave, Blithe Spirit delivers Coward’s trademark blend of razor-sharp dialogue, irresistible charm, and farcical mayhem. A timeless comedy of manners turned otherworldly, this delightful play proves that marriage - and the afterlife - can be murderously funny.
Contains mild swearing and innuendo. Not suitable for young children
CHARACTERS
CHARLES CONDOMINE
Playing age: 35–50
Gender: Male
Role size: Lead
Physicality: Moderate
Description:
A successful novelist — charming, self-important, rational, and increasingly exasperated. Charles prides himself on intellect and control, both of which are tested when the supernatural intrudes on his orderly life.
Casting notes:
Excellent comic timing required. Must balance arrogance with charm so the audience stays on his side as chaos escalates.
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RUTH CONDOMINE
Playing age: 30–45
Gender: Female
Role size: Lead
Physicality: Light to moderate
Description:
Charles’ second wife — intelligent, stylish, practical, and emotionally astute. Ruth begins grounded and confident but is gradually undone by jealousy and fury as events spiral.
Casting notes:
Strong emotional journey. Needs restraint, precision, and the ability to play rising tension without melodrama.
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ELVIRA
Playing age: 25–40 (youthful energy important)
Gender: Female
Role size: Lead
Physicality: High — agility required
Description:
Charles’ first wife, summoned back from the dead. Flirtatious, mischievous, selfish, and utterly delighted to be alive again. Elvira revels in causing disruption and has no interest in behaving politely.
Casting notes:
This role requires physical confidence: quick, light movement; ease crossing the stage; strong spatial awareness. Dance training not essential, but agility and fluidity are important.
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MADAME ARCATI
Playing age: 45–70
Gender: Female
Role size: Supporting (large impact)
Physicality: Moderate, energetic bursts
Description:
A boisterous, eccentric medium with absolute faith in her abilities. Fearless, unapologetic, and joyfully oblivious to social niceties.
Casting notes:
Big personality, strong voice, and commitment to character. Should be played truthfully, not as a caricature.
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DR GEORGE BRADMAN
Playing age: 40–60
Gender: Male
Role size: Supporting
Physicality: Minimal
Description:
A conventional, confident doctor and friend of Charles. Represents logic and authority — both of which are quietly dismantled by events
.
Casting notes:
Underplayed comedy works best. Calm presence with excellent reaction skills.
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MRS VIOLET BRADMAN
Playing age: 40–60
Gender: Female
Role size: Supporting
Physicality: Minimal
Description:
Polite, sociable, and increasingly unnerved. Violet is curious about the séance but quickly regrets it.
Casting notes:
Strong listening and reaction acting essential. Comedy comes from social discomfort rather than big moments.
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EDITH (CASTING GENDER-FLEXIBLE)
Playing age: 20–40
Gender: Any
Role size: Supporting
Physicality: Light comic movement
Description:
The maid — earnest, anxious, well-meaning, and accident-prone. Edith desperately wants to do a good job and almost always makes things worse.
Casting notes:
Precision physical comedy required. Played sincerely, never as parody.
GENERAL NOTES FOR AUDITIONEES
Clear diction and strong timing are essential
Accents should support period and clarity
Comedy comes from truth and pace, not exaggeration
Movement and spatial awareness are especially important for Elvira
Guide Bridge Theatre auditions are open to all. Whilst you can simply turn up for the auditions it would be helpful if you register that you are planning to audition for a play, and indicate which part(s) you are interested in (
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Please note
All actors offered a part in a GBT production must become an Active Member or Junior Friend (linked to an Active Member or Friend of Guide Bridge Theatre) within 14 days of being cast. For more information see the Membership page of our website (www.gbtheatre.co.uk).
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