Calamity Jane

There were some great touches to this show that really helped create the right atmosphere for Calamity Jane right from the start!

As the audience entered the auditorium, the stage was an open set with the saloon tables chairs, and the chorus going about their daily lives a drunkard being woken up with a splash of water, dancing girls entertaining and the piano playing in the honkytonk barroom style, great stuff!

The chorus was the most enthusiastic I have witnessed for some time, all reacting to what was going on and vocal, a little too vocal at times, making it difficult to distinguish the principals but their enthusiasm is to be recommended, not one letting up on their characterisations during the whole performance      

“The Deadwood Stage” got the show off to a roistering start, however the band was a little too loud, so that the clever and familiar lyrics were often lost. The same issue arose with “The Windy City”

Calamity gave it all she had, and her characterisation was energetic and spot on. Her timing was excellent and her singing enthusiastic, but at times her low notes were lost, even with throat mics there is a need to project. It may feel loud to the singer but not to the audience. A demanding and physically exhausting role well performed and visually excellent.

Wild Bill Hickock had the stage presence so necessary for the character. He had the stance, looks and stature that was just right and a very good singing voice!

Henry Miller had the character spot on. Entirely believable, funny, and getting the audience on his side,       

Katie Brown looked very feminine and played the part well with a beautiful singing voice” Love you Dearly” was sung so well with Danny Gilmartin it was a showstopper Danny was well played and his scene with Bill in the girl’s cabin was very well done and timed to perfection. A small point, although an officer in the army, he seemed to be wearing a corporal’s hat, more than compensated for by the splendid dress uniform he wore for the ball at the Fort. He and Katie were very well matched.

“A woman’s touch” was sung well by Calamity and Katie 

Francis Fryer was portrayed superbly, his acting, singing, and dancing were excellent A comedy role played with empathy, style and skill.               

Susan was beautifully understated in her role, endearing herself to the audience who took great delight in seeing her find her true love in the end.  

Adelaide Adams sung” Its Harry I’m planning to Marry “with the ease and confidence of a star and with a beautiful voice. A superb cameo

Doc Pierce had the part to an absolute t, and his expressions were truly great. a super character role played to perfection, not to mention his various appearances in the chorus, who themselves were so good as were all the smaller supporting roles

Congratulations must go to the set design and those connected, as it was of such a high standard. every part of the stage was used, and the choreography was splendid alongside the costumes that were colourful and in period.

The band was excellent and performed the familiar music with energy and expertise. 

It was a very entertaining evening and great to see so much enthusiasm alongside one of the great shows. The enjoyment of the audience was obvious. Everyone needed a jolly and fun show after so many months of a live performance desert. Teamwork, enthusiasm, and great talent produced a most enjoyable evening. Thank you to all involved.

 

Graham Liverton  

Regional Councillor NODA Southwest for Leigh Conley, District 8

 

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