Calamity Jane

Calamity Jane is a Western Musical based loosely on the historical authentic frontierswoman. with music by Sammy Fain and the Lyrics by Paul Francis Webster, based on the book by Ronald Hanmer and Phil Park.  It premiered in Texas on 27th May 1961 and the film was made in 1953 in Technicolor starring Doris Day and Howard Keel.

All Souls' selected Calamity Jane for their 58th production, it is quite a while since I had a trip into the Wild West and it was wonderful to hear all thise famous musical numbers we all love so well once again.

Calamity Jane (Helen Burton) gave a consummate and feisty performance of the central figure, her singing was outstanding.  A good strong Wild Bill Hickock, (Mark Hutchinson) in fine voice producded a convincing performance.  Katie Brown and Danny Gilmartin, (Heather Watson, Jai Jai Eakins) were well matched.  In a one scene Cameo role Adelaide Adams,  (Amy Ellison) delivered an impressive performance.  The Producer Graham West portrayed Francis Fryer, a very difficult character with enthusiastic confidence.

Completely at ease Henry Miller, his niece Susan deliverd their roles convincingly, all other smaller parts were well played.

The show, colourful and lively, moved along at a good pace with lots of movement from the chorus and the four dancers.  Excellent singing from the chorus throughout especially in "The Black Hills of Dakota".

As always the accompaniment for All Soul's' was just two pianos which made just the right atmosphere.

Congratulations to all for a most enjoyable evening.

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