This stage version of the 1950s Warner Bros film, which famously saw Doris Day in the lead role, benefits from such timeless classics as The Black Hills of Dakota (which bookmarks the show) and Secret Love (movingly melodramatic). Whilst Jodie Prenger’s take on Calamity is immensely enjoyable and powerful I rather prefer Toyah Wilcox’s performance in the 2003 production as it was more sassy and gritty.
But Prenger’s mezzo-soprano vocal talents are a revelation and the movement to go with it is highly skilled and impressive. Without being a spoiler (as many of you will have seen the film) there is something of a love triangle going on between ‘Cal’ and Wild Bill Hickok (a debonair charmer in Emmerdale veteran Tom Lister) and Lieutenant Danny Gilmartin (the equally dashing and charismatic Alex Hammond). But it isn’t until Katie Brown comes to town (played artfully and sexily by Phoebe Street) that things really come to a head.
As you would expect from Nikolai Foster – the man behind White Christmas at West Yorkshire Playhouse – the direction is impeccably masterful. And teaming up with designer is a match made in heaven with its saloon-style set full of inventiveness yet essentially simple approach and authentic costumes too.
The ensemble’s ability to move seamlessly into musical interludes is remarkable and their playing brings a touching and tender homeliness to the production, and the gunfire and whip-cracking is all done with aplomb.
You don’t have to enjoy either Westerns or musicals to love this show, as it will carry you along with its vivid vitality and intelligent assurance, in a way which blends high production values with emotional depth and intimacy.
Reviewed by Rich Jevons on 3 February at Alhambra Theatre, Bradford where it runs until 7 February and touring, see http://www.calamityjanetheshow.com/
See the Northern Soul website for Rich Jevons’ interview with Nikolai Foster.