Calamity Jane

“Calamity Jane” has been captivating audiences since its first performance on the big screen in the 1950s. Many will recall the late Doris Day earning well deserved plaudits for ‘Secret Love’.

Tonight Cupar has seen Charlotte Henry taking on the title role in this much loved musical – and didn’t she do well.  Apart from excellent singing the clarity of her diction was spot on! Joining Charlotte as Wild Bill Hickock was equally expressive Shane Franks.  Shane’s take on Wild Bill was extremely characterful, and, again, singing and dialogue were excellent.  Lucy McCallum offered a lovely Katie Brown and was joined by Adam Jeffrey (Lieutenant Danny Gilmartin) who fitted the role perfectly.  As comedy duo Francis Fryer and Adelaide Adams, Joshua Sinclair and Abbie Cook gave spirited performances, blending well with each other’s contrasting characters. Congratulations to Dane Johnstone as Henry Miller – a very polished performance, comparable to the many Henry Millers I’ve seen over the years!

Minor principals were no less polished in their performances. So, full marks to Susan (Freya Hoy), Joe (Luca Taddei), Doc Pierce (Rosie Wilson), Rattlesnake (Phoebe Ferris), Hank (Andrew Gibson) and Pete (Andrew Scott), each in their own way added the icing on the cake to this well performed show.

The Cupar Youth chorus obviously enjoyed the opportunity to perform in this wonderful musical, and the well-rehearsed singing and lively dancing was well-appreciated by the pretty near full house.

Congratulations must obviously go to the production team of Jude Vandecasteele (Director), Emily Middleton (Musical Director) and Rachel McNicol (Choreographer). As a team, they have brought out the talents of these young people and raised what could have been a mediocre show to one which any adult company would be proud of.

Sets by John Urquhart were ideal for this small stage and were handled well by the show technical crew.  A few problems with one of the cloths in Act Two – but we will forgive them for that!

Good sound as always made sure nothing was missed and lighting made sure that everyone was seen! Can’t ask for any more!

Many thanks for inviting me along to your 2019 show!

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