Calendar Girls

So my usual Thursday nights do not usually consist of seeing six middle aged women strip off live on stage, but this was no ordinary Thursday night, this was the smash hit play Calendar Girls by Tim Firth. It is always a pleasure to be asked to review for a production at the Oxted Barn by any of the resident groups. The payers are a particular highlight with their high production values brand of plays and pantomimes. Catherine Webber has cast and directed incredibly well with a very strong company across the board playing to the inherent comedy beautifully with the whole cast delivering skilful timing to rival any professional production. Every ounce of comedy was done and delivered fabulously and had me laughing out loud along with a very appreciative audience on a regular basis. This was balanced with touching poignant moments when dealing with some of the deeper and emotive issues raised by the piece and the clever use of subtle lighting emphasised these nicely. While offering equal commendation and praise to the entire company it would be remiss not to highlight the two leads Sharron Cox [Chris] and Chrissie White [Annie] who both drew the audience in with their warmth and depth of character, emotion and feeling. The set designed by Mike Sutton was highly artistic and had a true sense of realism when simply but beautifully lit by Richard Grogan and was expertly managed by Muriel Lister and her team. Thankfully most of the on-stage crew were female but it still took more courage and conviction for character than I think I could muster for the ladies to lay all bare for the audience. However they did it in style and the fictional John [Alan Webber] would most definitely have approved. I don't think I can pay them a better or more deserved compliment!

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