Photo Coverage: BLITHE SPIRIT Auditions for 'Medium Consultant' at Sardi's

The producers of Blithe Spirit are looking for a real-life psychic or medium to work closely with the cast of the upcoming Broadway show to guarantee that each performance is every bit as genuine as possible. Auditions were held on Thursday, January 22, 2009 at Sardi's (234 West 44th Street), across the street from The Shubert Theatre, where Blithe Spirit will be beginning performances on Thursday, February 26, 2009. The official opening of the show is on Sunday, March 15, 2009.

The producers are seeking real-life mediums or actors who are also mediums to prepare a two-minute audition to conjure the spirit of Noel Coward or to display any psychic abilities. This psychic or medium chosen will receive full credit as the show's official consultant in the show's Playbill.

Psychics and mediums came from all around the globe in the search for the best fit for Blithe Spirit. Among those who auditioned were a psychic sexologist, a psychic who has been featured in Time Out New York as one of the best in the city, a medium who has worked closely with the FBI to help solve murder cases, and many others that have experience conjuring deceased performers and politicians.

Blithe Spirit will star Angela Lansbury (Sweeney Todd,Gypsy, Dear World, Mame), Rupert Everett (My Best Friend's Wedding, An Ideal Husband), two-time Tony Award winner Christine Ebersole (Grey Gardens, 42nd Street), and two time Tony nominee Jayne Atkinson ("24", "Recount" Enchanted April). Simon Jones (Waiting in the Wings, The Real Thing) and Deborah Rush (Noises Off!) round out the cast. The play will be directed by two-time Tony Award winner Michael Blakemore (Kiss Me, Kate, Copenhagen).

Tickets for Blithe Spirit can be purchased by visiting telecharge.com or calling 212-239-6200 in the New York area, and 800-432-7250 outside the New York metro area

Photos by RD/Dziekan/Retna Digital Ltd.

Christine Ebersole