In October 2025, Act II Players, Mandarin’s Community Theatre, brought a production of BLITHE SPIRIT to life in Mandarin – in our new Black Box Theatre that helped the audience feel almost a part of the action!

In Noel Coward's hit play, skeptical novelist Charles Condomine (played by Derrek Koch in his stage debut) invites self-proclaimed medium Madame Arcati (played by Maureen Chadler Reid) to his home for a séance, hoping to gather material for a new book. When the hapless psychic accidentally summons the spirit of Condomine's late wife, Elvira (played by Marilyn Painter), his home and life are quickly turned to farce as his wife's ghost torments both himself and his new bride, Ruth (played by Shannen Murray). Elvira’s obsession with Charles and her strong desire to have him all to herself lead to the surfacing of secrets for all these characters with plenty of hijinks along the way.

Act II Players is overflowing with gratitude for everyone who made our production of BLITHE SPIRIT such a fun success. Whether on stage or behind the scenes—or in the audience cheering us on with your laughter—your support brought this story to life in the most magical way. Special thanks go out to Jamie Glavich, our producer, who allowed but was the driving factor behind transforming her business Almost Home Daybreak into an amazing Black Box Theatre.  

Charles Condomine -- Derrek Koch

Ruth Condomine -- Shannen Murray

Elvira Condomine -- Marilyn Painter

Madame Arcati -- Maureen Chandler Reid

Dr. George Bradman -- Tom Mackin

Mrs. Violet Bradman -- Kelly McDonell

Edith -- Kate Collins Brown

Director: Ava Fixel