FVCC stages 'Blithe Spirit'

Flathead Valley Community College Theatre will open its 2013-14 season with “Blithe Spirit.”

In this British comedy by Noël Coward, Charles Condomine finds himself in the unfortunate situation of being haunted by not one, but two dead wives. When combined with a few quirky friends, a klutzy maid and a crazy psychic, everything starts to fall apart.

Director Joe Legate says many members of the FVCC Theatre Company have anxiously awaited the chance to perform “Blithe Spirit.”

“I love the script! It's rich vocally and filled with character development,” he said. “Even though it’s a farce, it remains real — well, as real as ghosts can be — and complex.”

Showcasing seven actors, the cast of “Blithe Spirit” is considerably smaller than the casts of Legate’s other recent productions at FVCC, which included a cast of more than 30 for “The Rocky Horror Show” last fall.

“I love small casts,” Legate said. “I get to work with them through the process, and it's delightful for me professionally to really help the students grow. When they realize my vision and then add their own vision, it is extremely exciting.”

Performances of “Blithe Spirit” will take place Oct. 11, 12, 17, 18 and 19. Shows start at 7 p.m. in the FVCC Theatre inside the Arts and Technology Building.

Tickets are $10 for general admission, $5 for seniors and free for students. Advance tickets can be purchased at the FVCC Bookstore in Blake Hall or by calling 756-3814, at Campus Grounds inside the Arts and Technology Building, or online at www.fvcc.edu/fvcctheatre.html.

Remaining tickets will be available for purchase at the door prior to show times.