Calamity Jane

Calamity Jane                     Stafford Operatic Society                      April 2016

Deadwood City, South Dakota, where Cowboys, prospectors and a whole host of other characters  take up residence deep in Indian Territory. The Musical Calamity Jane doesn't really reflect what life might have really been like at this time, and in this region, but it is a platform for a fun storyline, larger than life characters and some cracking tunes.

Set in the town's Saloon - The Golden Garter, Stafford Operatic created a stage, on the stage, with the orchestra costumed and visible with members of the cast adding musical touches throughout. Costumes were as to be expected and lighting helped to create the various scenes and changes in time and place. There were some lovely touches where the company were used to help set and change scenes and create backdrops for some of the numbers.

I have to particularly mention the company in this show who really brought their various characters to life and maintained energy and life throughout. Rob Mincher, 'Potato Creek Johnny' was a perfect example of this with great characterisation, adding to, and not detracting from, the action. The company vocals were also strong and I particularly liked 'Black Hills of Dakota' with the cast coming through the audience.

Principals interacted well with each other and with the company. Will Wood's (Wild Bill) rendition of Higher than a Hawk was a highlight. Will, his guitar and a spot light, well played and sung, fabulous. Emily-Jane Nicholls worked the stage well but I missed the Calamity vocal 'belt'  which helps cement the 'walk like a man', 'shoot like a man' character. Jon Wilson, as Henry Miller, added the lighter comedic touches well and Vicky Webb, as Katie Brown, added a lovely softer 'Woman's touch' to the whole proceedings.

Knowing the company I was able to pick out the few members who played instruments at various points in the show, however, I'm not convinced that many audience members would have appreciated it. The changing of pianists at the piano was distracting and cast perching on the edge of the piano stool with their backs to the audience didn't really add anything to the overall performance and sound. If they can play, then make a feature of them, make them part of the action.

The audience enjoyed this traditional show and were transported in time by the familiar tunes. Well done to all involved for your hard work  in making this production an enjoyable one.

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