REVIEW: Calamity Jane

© Mark Senior

A whip-cracking and rip-roaring musical set in the Old West comes galloping into Birmingham.

Calamity Jane is now playing at the The Birmingham Hippodrome.

When the Hollywood musical Calamity Jane was released into cinemas in 1953 it caused a sensation. Doris Day’s bubbly and strong spirited performance as the title character proved irresistible and the film became a success.

A stage musical opened in America in 1961 which included extra musical numbers, and over the years the show has also enjoyed success in the UK with Carry On star Barbara Windsor and British singer Toyah Willcox taking on the role of Calamity Jane.

Although inspired by real life people who existed in the Old West, the tale purposefully steers away from fact and happily dives into the world of witty fiction to tell a story that is full of mischief and laughter.

The audience need not concern themselves too much about the story, and instead bask in the sheer energy and exuberance of the show and let the music and action seduce the senses.

The show contains comedy, romance, heartache, action and tons of unexpected delights all wrapped up in glorious singing and high octane dancing.

The songs are melodious and packed with poetic, and sometimes very direct tongue-in-cheek, references to gender roles, social rules and conventions, bigotry and misogyny. The show even dares to redefine the expectations of the way audiences view a hero.

Hollywood sweetheart Doris Day was undoubtedly brilliant in the film version but Carrie Hope Fletcher takes the role of Calamity Jane and absolutely stamps her own unique interpretation on the iconic character.

The warmth in Fletcher’s exquisite voice captures subtle nuances which enrich her performance. Fletcher’s movements and interplay with other characters displays strength and feminine power.

The ensemble cast and crew showcase their many talents by singing, acting, dancing and even playing musical instruments. Their professionalism and dedication to the show are phenomenal.

Birmingham Hippodrome’s stage offers Calamity Jane the epic space it needs to recreate the dusty town of Deadwood. Matthew Wright’s set designs capture the textures of the faded Western town.

Wright uses clever stage tricks to engage the audience without disrupting the flow of the show. The scene transitions are smooth and done in such a seamless manner that they become a natural part of the show.

It might be subzero temperatures outside but the heat and sparkling magic of this show warms the heart and soul.

Calamity Jane is a joyous and rousing musical that continues to delight.

Verdict: ★★★★★

Calamity Jane is playing at The Birmingham Hippodrome until Saturday 22nd March