Calendar Girls

When Calendar Girls was announced as Runway’s next production, there was excitement, energy and enthusiasm as they set about on their journey to produce the Scottish Amateur Premiere of the show in Eastwood Park Theatre. As we know, getting back to the theatre has been received well by all involved, and at Runway this was no exception.  

Most of us know the amazing background to Calendar Girls. With the creation of the musical by Gary Barlow and Tim Firth, the impact it has had on local communities, charities and theatre audiences has been at the least, powerful.

The extremely strong cast in this production of Calendar Girls left no emotion untapped. The brave women who took to the stage to tell the story brought tears and laughter in equal measure. Supported by a strong line up of principals, each one of them portrayed their own story to full theatre audiences all week. I don’t want to single out any particular performer in this review. However, I do have to mention the brave, courageous and endearing performances given by the six strong, individual women who very tastefully and discretely bared all for the WI calendar! Cast well in the roles, each one told their story through outstanding acting and vocal ability. With a supporting cast of principals who individually and collectively brought their talents to the stage audiences left the theatre fully immersed in the emotional journey known as Calendar Girls!

As we know, shows like this do not just happen. Prophire Scotland commissioned a new set by John Holding who also designed the lighting. A rolling hill photograph screen-printed backdrop; a textured dry-stone dyke creating a hill elevation which was used to its advantage; four trucks and a plethora of camouflaging props set the backdrop for the show. Robert Fyfe, Director, along with Choreographer Greg Robertson, and David Dunlop, Musical Director created a production that worked extremely well, and one of which they should be proud. An excellent balanced band and sound was evident, and the work of the stage crew under the leadership of Edward Gunn, Stage Manager, ensured the smooth running of the show from a technical aspect. Front of house was well organised, and full of buzz. The sale of calendars in support of The Beatson Charity, featuring all the brave females in the cast, proved to be successful. I’m sure as we open our calendars each month in 2023, we will look back with fond memories of Calendar Girls The Musical brought to us by Runway Theatre. Well done!

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