Calendar Girls

Amateur societies brave enough to stage this play deserve full admiration, while certainly not for the ‘prim and proper’ it is the ideal vehicle to show the talents of those braver ‘ladies of a certain age’ whose numbers usually dominate the majority of societies.

The first scene introduces the main characters, as a play about empowerment and taking control, these are characters who do not ‘suffer fools gladly’; the audience can feel ‘short changed’ if the expected strength and force in their portrayal is not delivered!

This production did not disappoint on any level, confidence oozed and the sense of empowerment was almost touching in its development. Casting could not be faulted, all forming a close team, each character consistent and solid in their delivery. The disrobing scenes were tasteful, impeccably rehearsed with any sign of trepidation naturally enveloped into the action as part of a ‘normal’ reaction to the situation.

Yorkshire accents, not the easiest to master, needed development in most cases although credit to those that kept trying! Lawrence and Ruth, being some of the exceptions, the latter firmly establishing her presence, showing a strong sense of timing and working her comedy lines to the full. Chris also stood out, as the member who arguably learns the most lessons, a notable performance. Of course, the gentlemen of the play do not go unnoticed! Lawrence (Dan Wilde) showed lots of promise as the aspiring photographer trying to organise the most amusing photo shoot! A demanding fourteen scenes, staged amongst the usual (for this society) impeccably designed and constructed sets were handled fairly swiftly. Some creditable lighting effects helped to create the atmosphere of the scenes, particularly during the death of John and the powerful, thought provoking ending. It’s not often props can take centre stage. On this occasion, impressive mounds of buns and oranges appeared to be ‘defying gravity’!

Direction varied from inspired, the emotive letters from the sky scene, to plain old tired, actors in straight lines not making full use of the stage, the latter being in the minority. Pace reached a most acceptable level fairly swiftly, as did cast confidence. This was an excellent, first night production; based on this performance the planned forthcoming tour should achieve well deserved acclaim.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.