WHAT an excellent first night performance of Blithe Spirit by St Peter's Players, writes Graham Prodger.

A well-known play which nevertheless needed adaptation to make it the successful production it was for the Players.

Much credit must go to the director David Tredinnick who, as when he is on stage himself, kept the action moving along apace.

Simon Ewart as Charles, the socialite and novelist, exuded charm, confusion and desperation as required in a superb performance.

Ravene Jelbert was absolutely in character as Ruth, displaying the appropriate frustration, disbelief, and determination.

We got what we expect from Angela Sibley – the usual first-class portrayal of Elvira the attractive but temperamental first wife of Charles, who is now a ghost visible only to him.

Stage presence is something you do or do not have – she does.

Jude Balson as the medium Madame Arcati swept all before her, and interpreted the character just as the audience would have imagined. Her timing, as ever, was spot on, and Jude can always introduce that element of humour.

Debs Kay was ideal as the maid 'always on the run' and seized her moment beautifully when confused by the on/off gramophone. As the Doctor and friend of the novelist, Dennis Axford was suitably serious and worried as the events unfolded, while Cathy Kay was a splendid twittering wife to him.