Orono High School Theater will present Blithe Spirit, a 1941 comedy by Noël Coward that originally premiered in London and on Broadway. Written during World War II as a form of lighthearted escapism, the play follows novelist Charles Condomine, who accidentally summons the ghost of his late wife, Elvira, during a séance.

The story centers on Charles’ complicated relationships with each of his wives; Elvira’s mischievous haunting creates escalating chaos, leaving Charles to confront his grief and the lingering presence of his past.

Ms. Balon, the director for Blithe Spirit, believes that “rehearsals have been going well, and students are ready to share their work with their community.”

The crew and actors also show excitement for the show.

“I think the most challenging part of Blithe Spirit compared to other shows we’ve done is crossing the barrier between the time that it was set in a current day,” senior Mel Kingsley said. “I think that as an actor, the best way to cross this barrier is with physical comedy.”

Ms. Balon is also excited to bring a show that would match the energy of the current seniors, as well as challenge them, in order to bring more quality shows to the community.

“I chose this play for a number of reasons; it’s a play I love and have wanted to do for a while, and I felt like it was a good fit for our current seniors. It’s funny and fast-paced and has similar vibes to ‘The Play That Goes Wrong!’” Balon said.

Performances for Blithe Spirit run from Thursday, April 23rd to Saturday, April 25th. The April 23rd and April 24th performances begin at 7:00 pm and run til 9:00 pm. The April 25th date is a two performance day, with its first performance at 2:00 pm until 4:00 pm and its second at 7:00 pm until 9:00 pm.

On April 24th, for a limited time, Orono Students can get discounted tickets for the spring play. Be sure to buy them quickly before they run out!