Debuting in London in 1941, the comedy "Blithe Spirit" set a record with 1,997 performances. After conducting a séance in his home, widower Charles Condomine inadvertently summons the spirit of his first wife, Elvira, who proceeds to cause trouble for him and his new marriage. When Elvira accidentally kills Ruth, Charles’ second wife, the two spirits terrorize each other, leaving Charles’ house in chaos. Widowed for a second time, Charles is left desperate to exorcise the two warring women from his home.

In 1945, author Noel Coward adapted the play to film and later to a musical, "High Spirits," in 1964. The latest stage run, which commenced in early 2009, stars Angela Lansbury as the clairvoyant and Rupert Everett as Charles Condomine. Angela Lansbury received a Tony Award for Best Featured Actress for her role.