Blithe Spirit June 30, 2007

Theatricum Botanicum conjures up a magical production of "Blithe Spirit" on its unique outdoor stage that's nestled in a canyon surrounded by oaks and sycamores. Noel Coward's urbane comic soufflé is set in the country home of Charles Condomine, a remarried widower. A casual, witty evening among friends is transformed by a séance when Madame Arcarti summons the silvery ghost of Charles' temperamental first wife, Elvira. To Charles' annoyance, Elvira delights in wreaking havoc and hilarity among the living. Worse still, his present wife, Ruth cannot see or hear her.

In addition to "Blithe Spirit", the Theatricum's 2007 Summer Repertory Season includes "The Tempest," William Shakespeare's final fantasy-romance for the stage (every Sunday afternoon June 3-September 30); William Shakespeare's tale of wonder, delight and enchantment, "A Midsummer Night's Dream" (June 9-July 21 and September 2-30); and the world premiere of Ellen Geer's adaptation of Bram Stoker's metaphysical tragedy, "Dracula" (July 28-September 29). Unlike most theaters in the Los Angeles area that stage continuous runs of a single play, the Theatricum performs the four plays on a rotating basis. By the end of the summer, when all four plays are up and running, it is possible to see a performance of each in a single weekend. For more info, call (310) 455-3723.

Official Website: http://www.theatricum.com