GreenMan Theatre to hold auditions for Noel Coward classic comedy 'Blithe Spirit' Aug. 27-28

Actors who admire Noel Coward's comedic ghost story, "Blithe Spirit," are invited to audition for GreenMan Theatre Troupe's November production of the celebrated British play.

Auditions will be held at 7 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 27 and 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 28, at First United Methodist Church, 232 S. York St. in Elmhurst.

An audience favorite, "Blithe Spirit" showcases the humorous antics of Brits Charles Condomine and his second wife Ruth, who get more than they bargained for when they invite a medium, Madame Arcati, to hold a séance at their home.

GreenMan Theatre first produced Coward's "improbable farce" as part of their second season in 2005.

"We're ready to have fun with this show again as part of our 20th anniversary this year," said David Soria, GreenMan Theatre's artistic director, and the play's director. "It's a great play for actors. The characters are all delightful. Even the smaller roles have wonderful comedic moments. Actors will be challenged to learn a proper English dialect and to keep up with the fast pace of the play."

There are roles for five women and two men. The characters include Charles Condomine, a middle-aged writer, and his second wife, Ruth. They have invited another couple, the Bradmans, to join them for dinner. Madame Arcati, an eccentric older woman, is their last dinner guest. Charles has invited her to conduct a séance as research for his book. Although it appears the séance was a flop, Charles is soon convinced that he hears and sees the ghost of his first wife, Elvira. Rounding out the cast of characters is the Condomines' inexperienced young maid, Edith.

GreenMan Theatre's "Blithe Spirit" will open Nov. 10 and run for two weekends, with eight performances scheduled. Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and 2 p.m. matinees on Saturdays and Sundays. The production closes Nov. 19.

For more information, email gmttauditions@gmail.com or log on to www.greenmantheatre.org.

In its 20th season, GreenMan Theatre Troupe is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization whose mission is to provide a source of cultural enrichment and pride for the community by presenting diverse, quality productions and providing opportunities for personal growth in the theatrical arts.

GreenMan has been presenting plays in Elmhurst since being founded in 2003. Past productions include "The Odd Couple," "Dracula," and "Pride and Prejudice." GreenMan also offers classes and workshops for members and the community and welcomes new members and participants in all aspects of theatre production. GreenMan programs are partially supported by Explore Elmhurst, as well as other individual and corporate donations.