The notion that witches have a comic, benevolent, even romantic side was popularized by the TV show, "Bewitched."  But probably not many fans of the series are aware it was inspired by a Broadway play.

In fact, if they're at all familiar with "Bell, Book and Candle," it's probably because of the 1958 movie with James Stewart and Kim Novak - rather than the play staged eight years earlier.  A chance to see the original version is provided at the Oyster Mill Playhouse.

Though lacking in magic and less funny than might be expected, this tale of a modern-day witch in Manhattan has its charms.

The production also is largely well-done, as directed by first-timer Colleen Spahr.  But even Spahr's sure hand can't make the pace go faster or the outcome seem less predictable.

You know when Gillian Holroyd tries to win her neighbor with a spell that both true love and complications - mostly brought about by her eccentric relatives - will ensue.

The play might seem less dated, however, if it had been more clearly set in the 1950's.  A touch-tone phone is slightly out of sync with a reference to the Communist Witch Hunt led by Senator Joseph McCarthy.

As Gillian, an attractive Rae Thomas starts out a bit shaky but picks up steam.  She seems more comfortable the more "human" her character becomes, and she is particularly strong in her final scene.

John A. Feichtel is convincing throughout as Shep Henderson, conveying the anger giving way to infatuation and back to anger again.

Laurie Wagner's acerbic wit and larger-than-life stage persona work perfectly for the role of Queenie, Gillian's aunt.

Fresh from a triumph in the very different role of Sister Sarah in OMP's "Guys and Dolls," Nina Johnston relished playing Gillian's sexy, witchier younger sister (actually a brother in the original text).  Her grimaces and furtive smiles are delightful to watch.

The set, constructed by Ben Williams and Sean Williams, is particularly evocative.