Noel Coward’s classic farce meets fierce, funny, feminism in Her Production’s first new show for 2025 gives a makeover to the classic and much-loved Blithe Spirit – premiering at Hope Mill Theatre from February 12th 2025.
Cantankerous novelist Charles Condomine finds himself haunted by the ghost of his eccentric late wife, much to the displeasure of his current one…brought to life by some of the North’s most exciting comedic talent and acclaimed feminist theatre makers, Her Productions takes on Coward with a twist. Expect his traditional, fun-filled comedy but with extra sass and sexiness. A Blithe meets Bridgerton if you will.
Following the success of Taming of The “Shrew” at Hope Mill last year co- directed by Her’s Artistic Director, Hannah Ellis Ryan – Ryan will make her solo directorial debut with this production, which also marks Her’s first take on Coward.
On her twist on the Coward classic, Ellis-Ryan comments: “This is the first time we’ve done Coward – but it’s been one of my favourite plays for years. I’m excited to offer audiences something I know is fun (even hilarious), while honour the text and the medium of a classic farce. We will bring a HER flavour, which for this production will be via the vibe and rule-breaking of Bridgerton.“
Coronation Street regular, Laura Littlewood (known to TV audiences as Suki the Reporter since 2019) returns to the stage and takes on the role of MRS BRADMAN alongside another TV favourite, Lancashire born Karen Henthorn as the hilarious, eccentric medium, MADAM ACARTI. Karen is also known to Coronation Street fans as Teresa Bryant, and she has appeared in many other TV faves such as Eastenders, Doctors, Heartbeat and Shameless to name but a few.
The cast is complete with Peter Stone as CHARLES; DR BRADMAN played by Lucas Cheong Smith; MRS BRADMAN played by Laura Littlewood; RUTH played by Ntombizodwa Ndlovu; ELVIRA played by Kayleigh Hawkins and Riah Amella joining the cast as EDITH.
Blithe Spirit opens at Hope Mill Theatre on February 12th and runs until the 22nd before heading to The Dukes in Lancaster from February 25th to March 1st.
