Calamity Jane

 

                          

I was warmly welcomed on arrival and met with Director Nikki Robinson at the end of the performance.

Again the society had created a wide stage with little depth and used the small hall  stage as additional space, primarily for Golden Garter Saloon scenes. Due to the limited space for movement on the main stage I was pleased to see that some older cast members were seated here thus involving them and making good use of their voices. The flexible set was designed and constructed by the society and mainly featured the Golden Garter Saloon with a free standing bar and cash register. The set was hinged and flipped to represent the scenes in Act Two with other set changes signalled by the use of appropriate props and good sound and lighting effects. I must also mention the costumes which were sumptuous and so colourful.       

 Music was provided by extremely talented pianist Joe Richardson with Dan Edwards on percussion and excellent direction by Hilary Brunning.

The production was fast moving with superb singing by all the very talented cast. There were some attractive descants in many numbers. The opening number, “The Deadwood Stage” was sung and danced by all and movement around the stage throughout was good with limited dance routines interspersed with some lively dancing  by the three glamorous Garter Girls.

Principals were very well cast with Nancy Hughes, as Calamity Jane dominating the stage. She had a tremendous stage presence with a lovely voice and a highly energetic performance as a tom boy type character. She was quick on the trigger as a cowgirl but also showed a vulnerability beneath.  Des Newell, as Wild Bill Hickock, was a perfect foil to Calamity, laid back with a wry sense of humour and a lovely sensitive voice. Tim Glover, as Lieutenant Danny Gilmartin, was a suave character, smart and good looking and a veritable “ladies man” whilst Amy Middleton, as ladies maid Katie Brown, oozed charm and ambition. Amy and Tim sang “I  Love You Dearly” with great feeling and were an excellent pairing.

Mike Mitchell, as Henry Miller, the rather staid salon bar owner, played a good role with  some wonderful facial expressions, with his niece, Susan, played by Charlotte Howell, doing her best to calm his stress.

Phil Stephens, as Francis Fryer, caused much laughter as he gamely tried to represent a glamorous female singer especially when his wig fell off. All part of the plot ! He had a really good voice in” Everyone Complains About the Weather”. Emily Gordon, as the singer Adelaide Adams gave us a sensitive rendition of  “It’s Harry I’m Planning to Marry” and David Wiggins  played the interesting character” Doc Pierce”

All the ensemble were citizens of Deadwood providing extra depth and volume to the production.  Without exception everyone maintained an American accent throughout.  

Many congratulations to Director Nikki Robinson for her imagination and innovation in creating this show which I and the audience enjoyed. Well done everyone

 

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