An intimate preview audience experienced the spirited performance of “Blithe Spirit” by Noel Coward Thursday night in preparation for the launch of Butler Little Theatre's 75th season.

The show, cast with both veteran and novice performers, tells the tale of the life and afterlife of those involved with Charles Condomine played by Dan McCarty. McCarty shined in a role that he took on a mere 12 days prior when the original actor fell ill.

I feared he wouldn't have a ghost of a chance at mastering the rich, witty and wordy dialogue. I was wrong. He offered up a commendable performance.

His delivery and the chemistry with his fellow cast mates was spot on. He gave a delightful portrayal of a haughty Englishman with a tad of boorishness thrown in for good measure.

His wives were played by Amy Cannard as the deceased and Stephanie Kobil as the current. Cannard was enjoyable in her role of a mischievous spirit, Elvira, as she flirted with her husband and taunted the others. She garnered her share of laughs as she pranced and pouted throughout the show.

The cast members did a superb job of acting around her. The blocking was precise.

Kobil was a trooper. Though nursing a cold she pressed on as Ruth, the devoted wife of Condomine in both for better or worse situations. Her ease on the stage and the way she portrayed her unbelief in the world of mediums and the afterlife was quite credible and funny.

Bonnie Cahill nailed the role of Madame Arcati, the lively and eager medium whose actions resulted in a most unusual house guest. Her flair for the dramatic combined with outlandish outfits were both fitting for the role which was most entertaining. Her accent was delightful and her facial expressions amusing.

Dennis Whalen and Allison Torres played Dr. and Mrs. Bradman the skeptical partners in the crime at the séance. The comical pair was an asset to the show.

Lorraine Martin played the speedy maid, Edith who had some hidden talents of her own. Her few lines, did not affect her ability to adequately convey the emotions her character was experiencing.

The set was stunning with rich color and details befitting of an English sitting room and the costumes lovely.

Katie Moore did a great job with casting and blocking in this tricky show.

It was a hauntingly fun evening of theater.

WHAT: Butler Little Theatre’s “Blithe Spirit” by Noël CowardWHEN: 8:15 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 7:30 p.m. Tuesday to Thursday and 2:30 Sundays until Oct. 10WHERE: The Butler Little Theatre, One Howard StreetTICKETS: $12; to reserve, call 724-287-6781, Monday through Friday, from 7 to 9 p.m.INFO: www.bltgroup.org