The hype has been high for this show but it really did live up to and indeed exceed all expectations on the red-carpet celeb-tastic press night. Tim Firth and Gary Barlow’s writing is bittersweet, this is really the story of John Clarke who fought and lost a battle against cancer. The state of the hospital ward persuades his wife to come up with a rather risque WI calendar as a fundraiser, the rest is history.
But even if you may the story from the classic film Calendar Girls this is all-singing, all-dancing and really hits home with its deadly serious message whilst having uproarious fun on the way. It really is an outstanding ensemble performance and the casting is magnificent, all shapes, sizes and ages are represented.
The songs such as the earworm-creating ‘Yorkshire’ and the evocative and nostalgic ‘Who Wants a Silent Night?’ are simply superb and at the top of their game, this show will run and run. There is an interesting subplot with a teenage couple falling in love and perhaps getting a bit ahead of themselves in terms of sex and alcohol. But the parents, if they are seen as role models, have to admit they are saying, ‘Do as we say!’ rather than ‘Do as we did!’
Under the masterful direction of Roger Haines and Tim Firth the pace is quick but not rushed, allowing us time to take in some of the more tear-jerking moments as well as laugh out loud at the hilarity. The set is simply to die for and the costumes add a real authenticity and it is highly appropriate that we see the cast all in black for the finale, though this is mournful merriment not maudlin.
This will go down in the annals of theatrical history as a night to remember and this show is a totally special and unique experience which benefits from a totally committed cast and such copious creativity that is simply rolls off the stage onto the enchanted and thrilled audience. Bravo!
Reviewed by Rich Jevons at Leeds Grand Theatre, 1 December 2015