Carrie Hope Fletcher as Calamity Jane – Photo Credit: Mark Senior
Venue: Aylesbury Waterside Theatre
Performance Date: 15 January 2025
Reviewer: Gemma Fincher
Star Rating: ★★★★
The UK tour of Calamity Jane galloped onto the stage this week, proving that this Wild West classic is as spirited as ever. Based on the much-loved 1953 film starring Doris Day, the musical retains all the charm of its screen predecessor while adding fresh vitality for modern audiences. Packed with toe-tapping tunes, rollicking humour, and a few heartfelt surprises, this production is a joyous celebration of the timeless tale.
Vocal powerhouse and stage stalwart Carrie Hope Fletcher steps into Calamity’s boots for this revival, quickly proving to be an inspired casting. She brings a fresh and modern feel to the character channelling Calamity’s rambunctious and infectious personality. Fletcher is complimented beautifully by Vinny Coyle as Wild Bill Hickok. The two have a believable chemistry and bounce off each other with ease.
The wider cast is wonderfully strong, and they bring untold strength in depth. Samuel Holmes provides a wonderful turn as Francis (with an I) Fryer. Holmes always brings his own unique brand of comedy to his roles, and this is no different. He is a joy to watch and an excellent addition to a very accomplished cast.
What makes this revival stand out is its multi-skilled company, who not only act, sing, and dance with boundless energy but also play instruments live on stage. From guitars and fiddles to trumpets and banjos, the musicianship is seamlessly woven into the narrative, adding another layer of immersion to the show. It’s a clever and captivating choice that brings Deadwood City to life in an utterly unique way, as the cast switches effortlessly between their roles and their instruments without missing a beat. The result is a rich, textured soundscape that draws the audience deeper into the Wild West.
The cast bring heart, humour, and a touch of mischief to their roles, creating characters that leap off the stage. Their chemistry is infectious, particularly in the playful banter between Calamity and Wild Bill, and the tender moments are handled with sincerity and charm. Musical highlights like the rousing “The Deadwood Stage (Whip-Crack-Away!)” and the iconic ballad “Secret Love” are delivered with gusto and vocal prowess, making familiar songs feel as vibrant as ever.
The production is further elevated by Nick Winston’s whip-smart choreography, which is as polished as a saloon bar mirror, and a creative approach to staging that keeps the action flowing seamlessly. The use of lighting and set design is particularly striking, capturing the rugged beauty and raucous energy of the frontier town. This is no mean feat for a touring production and kudos must be given to Matthew Wright’s set design. Every detail feels meticulously crafted, yet the overall effect is light, lively, and effortless, a testament to the skill of the direction.
While staying true to the original film’s nostalgic charm, this revival injects just enough modern energy to feel fresh and relevant. The multi-talented cast and innovative direction ensure that Calamity Jane offers more than just a trip down memory lane. It’s a fully immersive experience that captures the essence of the Wild West while giving it a contemporary edge.
Perfect for audiences of all ages, this production is a feel-good tonic brimming with toe-tapping tunes, laugh-out-loud moments, and plenty of heart. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the 1953 film or discovering the story for the first time, this revival hits the bullseye. Saddle up and grab your tickets, this Calamity Jane is a rip-roaring, whip-cracking delight that’ll leave you grinning from ear to ear!
Runs until: Saturday 18 January 2025