Calamity Jane

Given the limitations of the staging at this venue I thought “Calamity” was a brave production to attempt, but with a basic set plus flats and every inch of the stage being utilised, it worked very well.

A large cast of adults and children gave this production a very lively feel.

The children were especially good, and coped with dancing and singing, more to the point, they all looked as if they were having a great time.

Lesley Mercer as Calamity Jane had a good stage presence and the transistion of a tomboy to the rather more genteel lady was effective with costuming etc.

Playing Wild Bill Hickock was Rob Warne.   Rob has played a variety of parts over the years and this was rather a departure from the norm from him.  A good strong singing voice, albeit a rather laid back Wild Bill than usually portrayed perhaps?

A great many character parts in this production all well played.

Sarah Hitchcock as Katie Brown and Mark Hinson as Lieut Danny Gilmartin gelled well, and I must mention Emma Tedder as Susan and Pippa Revell as Adelaide Adams.  They had great spirit in their characters, and good all round performances with strong singing.

Alex Warne as Francis Fryer made the most of a really fun part.

I think he got Frances(The female version) just right.

In the main most of the cast coped well and maintained an American accent.

The costumes were colourful and looked good.

Under the direction of Patience Ling the singing went well.   ”The Black Hills of Dakota” was rather fast and perhaps rather more light and shade in this lovely song would have added even more.   Well done to the cast however for a good effort in harmonies which came through very well, and to Patience for her usual support  to the principals and chorus.

Val Eldridge as Director once again inspired her cast to give great entertainment to the audience which showed through, and we all were thoroughly entertained.

I think you all did a great job, cast and crew alike, and it was good to meet up again after the last production to see how the society is continuing to grow both in people and attainment.    Keep up the good work !

Thank you for a really enjoyable production.

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