Calendar Girls The Musical

Having last performed an adult musical in 2019, it was great to see one back in Thetford Players’ annual calendar (forgive the pun), and long may it continue. With an annual programme of panto, adult musical and a thriving youth group, they are very busy all year round. As I entered the Carnegie on an extremely hot summer’s evening, we received the usual welcome, and took our seats in the lovely, air-conditioned auditorium.

There were some nice touches to reflect what the most important subject this musical is about, those who have been affected by cancer and continue to be. Leaving a sunflower keyring on each seat, as well as a commemorative calendar, with the proceeds going to Macmillan, was a very thoughtful addition. Cast member Martin Godfrey had also “Braved the shave,” raising a further considerable amount.

The stage curtains and set were left open before and during the performance, with the Calendar Girls the Musical logo projected throughout the show onto a cloth above the rear of the stage. I personally found this a little distracting at times. However, I was later informed that some hand-drawn projected backdrops to be used for the show had suffered a last-minute technical issue just before curtain up. The simple set consisted of low-level brick impressions downstage left, to reflect the flower shop, and downstage right for the Yorkshire based setting. Both the décor and flowers inside the flower shop, and props used for the final photoshoot, were excellent. Music was via backing tracks, and lighting was good. There were a few mic issues and late mic cues on opening night, including one cast member whose mic never worked throughout the performance, but I am sure this would have been ironed out as the run continued.

Inevitably, rehearsing and performing this show must have stirred a wide range of emotions. Each of the six Calendar Girls brought a unique individuality to their role, and I commend them all not only for this, but also for their solidarity and support for one another throughout the production. The final scenes, in particular, were directed and managed with great sensitivity and absolute perfection. Emma Kelly (Chris), Linzi Holding (Annie), Rowan Charlotte Jeffries (Cora), Liz Burt (Celia), Jo Cooper (Jessie), and Caroline Foot (Ruth) all deserve equal praise. A wholehearted congratulations and well done to each and every one of you.

Anna Kedge, portraying WI Chair Marie, gave an engaging and well-delivered introduction that set the scene perfectly for the show and her performance was equally particularly good. Martin Godfrey's performance as John was both measured and convincing, earning the affection and support of the audience throughout.

Lexi Brien, as Danny, and Summer- Brooke Harvey, as Jenny, were both well cast, as was Zoran Hanitzsch as photographer Lawrence. The Tea and Coffee Ladies, both Miss Wilsons, were played with comic flair by Sarah Greenwood and Jo van der Hulks.

The other good supporting cast included Nat Holding, as Rod, Phil Pearson, as Colin, and Danny Pidd, as Denis. Janien Squires doubled up as Lady Cravenshire and Brenda Hulse, and Sebastian Donoghue, as Tommo.

This was an enjoyable and heartfelt production that captured the warmth, humour, and emotional core of the story. My thanks to everyone at Thetford Players for the invitation, warm welcome and hospitality.

 

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