Calamity Jane

The show was full of energy from the get go; with the whole cast taking part in the opening number.  The energy did not diminish and the entire production was thoroughly enjoyable.

The Principals all performed well with an excellent performance from Victoria Purton as Calamity Jane.  Matthew Capp was very strong as Wild Bill Hickock and his songs were simply outstanding.  I must give a special mention for Josh Handley, who played Francis Fryer, It’s not an easy part to play and he carried off the female impersonation with style and comedy, I look forward to seeing more from this talented young man.

It is a joy to watch a company with so many strong singers and the entire ensemble all had their own characters which they maintained throughout the production.  The younger members of the cast displayed a confidence and ability that bodes well for the society’s latest venture, TOPS Kids.   

This was a large cast, I counted about 40 and getting that number of performers on and off stage requires good direction. The more mature members of the company displayed energy and enthusiasm that is often missing from this section of a company.  The result was an excellent show from start to finish.                                                                   

It was the first night but it all seemed to go very smoothly with no noticeable glitches.  At least, if there were any, the company covered them very well and the audience obviously enjoyed and appreciated the performance.

The costumes were excellent and the scenery was simple but very effective and, with the cast making the changes, the whole production moved with pace.  I was a little worried at first as the band seemed to be drowning out the dialogue; however it settled down after the opening and the underscoring seemed to be more muted.

Overall an excellent and enjoyable show, well done TOPS.

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