Theatre Review: Calamity Jane

Calamity Jane Review

Where: Bristol Hippodrome

Dates: Tuesday 23rd – Saturday 27th September

Timing: 2 hours and 30mins (including a 20-minute interval)

Rating:★★★★

After 10 years, the Whip Crackin’ musical returns to the stage! Last night I had the pleasure of watching this old-time classic as Calamity Jane opened at the Bristol Hippodrome. This feel-good musical left the audience feeling joyous and nostalgic.

The story of Calamity Jane is based on the Doris Day musical film from 1953. The production follows Calamity Jane, affectionately known as the biggest mouth in Dakota, as she promises to bring the boys of Deadwood the big time Adelaide Adams. After her travels to the Windy City, she returns with whom she thinks is Adelaide, but ends up being Katie Brown. The show follows themes of friendship, love, jealousy, and self-discovery as the women decide who their hearts are set on.

Nikolai Foster returns to direct this much-loved story alongside Nick Winston after the production was originally staged in 2014 at The Watermill Theatre. Multi-award-winning West End actress and singer Carrie Hope Fletcher returns to the stage as Calamity, and she certainly does not disappoint—she fully embodies the fearless, headstrong spirit of Calamity Jane. While the score may not boast many show-stopping vocal numbers, Fletcher’s rich vocals and commanding stage presence elevate every moment, capturing the heart of the character with ease.

The Musical has a rather slow start, but this doesn’t last long as the plot becomes rather rushed and allows very little time for Character development. Despite this, the cast manages to expertly depict the depth of the emotion that motivates the character’s actions, despite the rather simple material. They also managed to work in comedic moments without them becoming lost or feeling out of place.

This was definitely a joyous and nostalgic performance; if you loved the Doris Day film, you will love this production. A highlight of mine was the rendition of “Black Hills of Dakota” and “The Deadwood Stage.” Throughout the musical, the old tunes were brought to life again with a much more engaging performance by the orchestra, led by Catherine Jayes. This musical also features some actor musicians on stage, which added a lovely feel to the musical. In the original complete recording of the musical, the lyrics can be unclear at times due to the tonal quality and stylised delivery of the era. I was worried that this production might encounter similar issues; however, I was pleased to find that the cast really clearly communicated the lyrics and lines to the audience with consistent accents and clear diction throughout, allowing the audience to follow every word. I hope there are plans in place for a full audio recording of this cast’s performance

To experience the musical fun for yourself, head to www.atgtickets.com to book tickets. With Bristol being the last stop for Calamity Jane UK Touring Company, this truly is your last chance to see this easy-going, feel-good musical.

For those wanting an extra special evening out, you can book your early dinner at The Square Club, nestled away on leafy Berkeley Square, before heading down Park Street for your evening at the theatre. Need to stay the night? The Berkeley Suites offer the ultimate luxury night away, having recently won the Conde-Naste award of excellence.