Calamity Jane

From the overture, the music of this popular show wrapped itself comfortably around the audience and transported us to mid America with its gun shooting, rumbustious main character Calamity Jane. This role was grasped wholeheartedly by Naomi Scott catching nicely the defiant woman trying to prove her worth in a man’s world before realising her true feelings in an emotional My Secret Love. Provoking her to the max was Richard Underwood egging her on in Tell us Another One and with sparks flying in their duet I Could Do Without You then showing all the discomfort of a man faced with an angry female undressing, before recognising his love for her. Martin Scott played Lieut. Danny Gilmartin showing him as resilient on coping with Indian attack but less sure when he falls in love with Katy and how to tell Calamity. Olivia Pearson took on the role of Katie Brown and in this her first principal role showed what she is capable of by portraying a frightened substitute for a famed singer then growing in confidence when she knows she is appreciated. Their duet Love Me Dearly was a tender moment. Angela Dickinson showed herself in a different light this year with the role of Adelaide Adams where her less than veiled contempt for Katy’s abilities and ruthless handling of her admirers were spot on. Grant Webb dealt well with testing role of Francis Fryer, a shy song and dance man thrust into impersonating a woman and putting over an attractive seductiveness until the wig came off. He got his reward in finding his partner Susan. Other principals upheld their roles: Steve Murphy as the excitable proprietor Henry Miller; Charlotte Wood as Susan, the capable proprietor's niece; Brian McKay as Joe The Barman, John Isgrave as Hank and Matt Duncan as Rattlesnake. The story line charged along with wonderful numbers- The Deadwood Stage, Windy City and of course the lovely harmonies in The Black Hills of Dakota. The chorus sang all theses classics with engaging style and the dancers’ moves were all in keeping with the times. This is a great company show and this production with apt costuming and colourful cloths setting each scene, made a great impression on myself and the audience who showed their hearty appreciation. Well done to all.

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