“Blithe Spirit” is at Carlos do Carmo Auditorium in Lagoa next week
In 1931, Noël Coward, or ‘the Master’ as he was dubbed by his contemporaries, was declared the highest earning author in the world. He remains one of Britain’s most famous sons, infant prodigy, witty playwright, talented composer, writer and performer.
His epigrams are endlessly quoted and his plays still performed around the world, the most beloved of which is “Blithe Spirit”, which The Algarveans theatre group will perform as part of their contribution to Lagoa’s Humorfest, next week.
Frank Remiatte, known to Algarvean audiences from his stage appearances as the Cowardly Lion in “The Wizard of Oz” and Gordon in the “Little Grimley” plays, explains why he chose to direct this particular play from the 50 others in Coward’s repertoire.
“Blithe Spirit has a special place in my long list of favourites. I had the pleasure of playing Charles Condomine 15 years ago in San Diego. So, when I was asked to direct a show for Humorfest 2025, I jumped at the chance. I’m a huge fan of Coward’s style and am thrilled to bring this play to life with the help of an amazing production team and a wonderful cast,” said Frank Remiatte.
One of Coward’s most memorable creations is the role of Madame Arcati, the eccentric medium who summons the ‘blithe spirit’, immortalized by Margaret Rutherford in the 1945 film. A coveted role for any actress, Val Lefrère is delighted to play the part, although she admits she has had to wait 40 years before finally being offered the role!
“Blithe Spirit” is at the Carlos do Carmo Auditorium, Lagoa, on March 13, 14 and 15, at 7.30pm. Tickets, at €12, are available from bol.pt or Auditório Carlos do Carmo, Convento de S. José and Balcão Único in Lagoa. Tickets are also available at Worten and FNAC.
