‘Bell, Book and Candle’ spells magic
2nd Story Theatre production delivers some late-summer escapism
WARREN — Something magical is going on right now at 2nd Story Theatre: a charming production of “Bell, Book and Candle.”
The play is a light-hearted confection penned by John Van Druten, author also of “I Am Camera,” the play that inspired the more serious “Cabaret.” Here, he cleverly works his way through complications and ironic situations to a happy ending.
The story, known to many from a 1958 movie starring Kim Novak and James Stewart, is about a modernday witch, Gillian-Holroyd, who casts a spell over her bachelor neighbor, primarily to keep him from marrying a woman she knew, and despised, in college.
Spellbound, the young man is instantly smitten. But when Gillian begins to have feelings for him, she has a problem; falling in love means losing her powers. What’s a witch to do? The relationship between the attractive young witch and her neighbor, Shepard Henderson, is at the center of the play, but this is no simple boy-meets-girl story. After all, Shep’s interest is based on magic; he has no idea what’s come over him and, more to the point, he doesn’t believe witches even exist.
Little does he know that Gillian comes from a family of witches and warlocks, including a meddling Auntie Queenie and a brother, Nicky Holroyd.
Adding another twist is writer Sidney Redlitch, who is researching a book on the supernatural. Funny moments occur as she talks with Gillian and her relatives about “the others,” claiming, pompously but incorrectly, that even though witches appear like other humans, she can pick one out in a crowd.
Director Mark Peckham sets the tone and knows when to play it straight – and when to embrace flickering lights, thundering sounds and magical potions.
Valerie Westgate brings her own theatrical magic to the role of Gillian, portraying her uneasy rapport with her magical abilities – she calls relying on them an addiction – but when challenged, taking pride in her power. When she’s crossed, watch out. Westgate is sweet, funny, and ferocious.
Charles Lafond matches her talent as Nicky. Unlike his sister, Nicky has no scruples when it comes to using magic – or not, as when he gleefully collaborates on “research” with an unknowing Redlitch. Lafond seems to relish the role, and he’s perfect.
Susan Bowen Powers does a great job as Redlitch, the know-it-all writer who has no idea with whom she’s dealing. Isabel O’Donnell is a ditzy Auntie Queenie, and David Nando Rodgers is most convincing when, at last, he does know who he’s dealing with and earnestly tries to sort out his feelings.
The play is performed in the round, and Peckham keeps his actors on the move to engage with audience members on all sides. Even when their backs are turned, however, the details of Ron Cesario’s 1950s-era costumes keep your attention, especially a striking green number worn by Gillian and a fulllength cape that Nicky swirls around him.
This production of “Bell, Book and Candle” is unadulterated entertainment, a fun choice for some late summer escapism.
Performances continue Thursdays through Sundays, evening and matinees, until Sept. 3. Don’t let the magic run out before you get tickets, available for $40 online at www.2ndstorytheatre.com or by calling the box office at 401-247-4200.