Director Charles saved the show

EVERY theatre group has its "Macbeth" production when everything that can go wrong, does!

At Unit One Theatre Group it must have seemed as though Noel Coward's "Blithe Spirit" was to be their undoing.

In the run-up to last week's performance at Salford Playhouse mishap followed mishap and, when the actor playing one of the main parts dropped out at last minute, it looked as though the whole thing might have to be called off.

However, director Charles Taylor agreed to step into the role of Charles Condomine and did so excellently, even though he had at times to refer to the script.

The rest of the very talented cast adapted well to the situation, and the short pauses as Charles decided which way he should move. The audience - unfortunately a small first night gathering - particularly appreciated Iris Sharples's exuberant Madame Arcati.

All in all, it amounted to one of the best amateur performances I have seen in some time.

L.E.

SWINTON AND PENDLEBURY JOURNAL, 

29th May 1986