A joyous classic that is a must-see for any true musical fans.
Calamity Jane is a musical based on a real woman who was among other things a nurse, stagecoach driver, and gunslinger. She earned her name because she is credited with getting herself and those around her tangled up in many problems. However, she somehow always ends up working things out, never quite getting the credit she deserves for her clumsy genius. Calamity is constantly being overlooked or dismissed until her makeover from Chicago lady Katie Brown allows her femininity to shine through to the outside. Songs such as Deadwood Stage, and Just Blew in From the Windy City were made famous by Doris Day in the 1953 film version. As a fan of the iconic movie musical for years, I was not going into the production blind – I had high expectations of Carrie Hope Fletcher who I have always wanted to see on stage.
The red and gold of the Festival Theatre surroundings perfectly matched the colour scheme used to promote the production. The audience is welcomed by a lone banjo, spotlighted as a reminder that the musicians are front and centre in this production. It was the only musical I have experienced that encouraged audience participation and the well-loved songs were regularly echoed by audience members during the performance. It was a show full of stomping and clapping, leaping onto chairs sort of choreography that was guaranteed to brighten your spirits. The ending felt like an extra unexpected treat as the actors broke out into a hoedown complete with steps akin to line dancing.
The costumes are instantly recognisable with no odd surprises thrown in. After all, Calamity’s look is brought up a lot in contrast to the other women around her. Far from trying to be fashionable, she nevertheless stands out when she is not being mistaken for a man. The costumes and set were mostly unchanging, but that didn’t stop the innovative use of props that provided the perfect backdrop to each scene. There was a lot achieved by lighting cues, sound effects, and umbrellas.
The production skilfully integrated actor-musicians which seemed perfectly fitting for the stage. Everyone managed to give detailed performances, almost being onstage the whole time and whilst carrying an instrument! The only time when the instrument felt a bit forced or out of place was during the boyband stool rendition of Higher Than A Hawk. The songs are overall short and cheerful, but Carrie Hope Fletcher grasped her moment to shine during Secret Love and got me to shed a tear at her beautiful and powerful voice. She completely deserves to walk in Doris Day’s brown boots. Vinny Coyle shared great chemistry with Fletcher as Calamity’s perfect match, Bill Hickock. I could go on about everyone, but Samuel Holmes deserves a special mention for every little gesture that made Francis Fryer impossible to look away from.
Calamity Jane contains the moral of making the best of situations. Maintaining inclusivity to the underdogs and giving everyone a second chance- a sentiment that holds value today.