The musical Calamity Jane is based on the popular 1953 Doris Day film. It is a highly fictionalised account of the life of Martha Jane Canary, affectionately called Calamity Jane. The story borrows some of her personality, traits, and quirks but fabricates almost all the situations and relationships seen within the play. But what a lovely story; it could easily have been a Disney animated film of the ‘50s!

We follow a gun-slinging, trousers-wearing Calamity who loves to tell tall tales of her exploits. She is part of the small Deadwood community and has a notorious part-rivalry, part-friendship with Wild Bill Hickok. Trouble brews when she sets out to bring famous actress Adelaide Adams to perform in her small town but can only manage to bring over her maid Katie Brown, who pretends to be the actress. This causes ripples and brings big changes to the small community.

This production of Calamity Jane is a revival of the 2013 production first staged at the Watermill Theatre. Due to the limited space available, the Watermill Theatre is unable to accommodate an orchestra, instead producing signature shows that are played by actor-musicians. This made for some really interesting arrangements on stage, and I could only marvel at how incredibly talented these actors were – acting, singing, and playing instruments simultaneously.

The roles fit each member of the cast like a glove. It seemed as if they had been playing these characters for years, and yet were as passionate about them as ever. Carrie Hope Fletcher is incredible in her role as Calamity. She commands every scene she is in but also ensures that she never outshines the other characters. She is present in almost every scene in the show; however her energy is relentless. She is as spunky and vivacious in the final scenes as the initial ones.

Calamity and the suave Wild Bill, played by Vinny Coyle, have unmistakable chemistry. In classic enemies-to-lover fashion, they clash and meet head-to-head and spar verbally, yet there is an undeniable spark between the two. Beneath it all, they love and respect each other deeply.

The score was enchanting. The very first song, ‘Deadwood Stage’ put a smile on my face and songs like ‘Men’, ‘Hive Full of Honey’ and ‘Careless with the Truth’ had us roaring with laughter. It was also really lovely hearing the audience sing along with ‘Black Hills of Dakota’.

There is also some incredible dancing in the show, the line dancing and ball dance scenes being my favourite. The musical has some classic slapstick comedy, making for a light-hearted and joyful time.

The set design is simple, but versatile. It is easily transformed from scene to scene. Consisting of a smaller stage within the actual stage, it makes use of it often with many of the characters performing for the Deadwood audience.

Overall, I think it was a charming show with lots of heart. I did think there wasn’t enough plot for a two-hour play, which made the story feel slightly stretched out, but the production makes the best possible use of the material. It’s not exactly sleek and modern, but I would recommend it for a joyful, family-friendly trip to the past.

Rating: 4/5

The cast of Calamity Jane are currently on their UK and Ireland tour, with tickets available to book online here!

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