Based on the beloved 1953 film starring Doris Day, Calamity Jane is a lighthearted musical that brings the Old West to life with classic songs, lively choreography, and plenty of charm. This production, directed by Nikolai Foster with choreography by Nick Winston, maintains the high-energy spirit of the original while making a few updates to the lyrics and staging. Featuring a cast of actor-musicians, it leans into a playful, self-aware style that embraces the musical's inherent theatricality. However, while the show certainly delivers in entertainment, some of its dated elements remain difficult to overlook.
Set in Deadwood, South Dakota, the musical follows the adventures of the rough-and-tumble Calamity Jane, who is as quick with a tall tale as she is with a gun. After boasting she can bring a famous actress, Adelaide Adams, to perform at the Golden Garter Saloon, she accidentally hires the star’s maid, Katie Brown, instead. As Katie charms the town, a romantic tangle ensues, with both Calamity and Wild Bill Hickok drawn into an unexpected love triangle. The story unfolds in a series of lively but somewhat disjointed scenes, with the central romance only truly coming into focus in the second act. While the narrative has its moments of charm, it lacks depth and can feel predictable, with outdated gender dynamics that don’t entirely hold up to modern scrutiny.
Matthew Wright’s saloon-style set, complete with a proscenium arch, embraces the show-within-a-show concept, adding a touch of theatrical flair to the production. The inventive staging allows for quick transitions, with tables and chairs doubling as a stagecoach and the journey to Chicago cleverly suggested through simple but effective choreography. The lighting enhances the lively atmosphere, though there are moments where it feels somewhat static. Costumes remain faithful to the Western aesthetic, with Calamity’s signature buckskin outfit contrasting sharply with the frills and finery of the Deadwood townsfolk.
Musically, the show features well-loved numbers like The Black Hills of Dakota and Secret Love, which are performed with warmth and enthusiasm. The actor-musician format brings a unique energy, with the cast seamlessly switching between playing instruments and engaging in dance sequences. However, while the score is undeniably nostalgic, some of the additional songs feel less memorable, and the first act, in particular, lacks a strong musical anchor.
Carrie Hope Fletcher is undoubtedly the heart of the production, delivering a standout performance as Calamity Jane. She perfectly balances Calamity’s boisterous bravado with moments of vulnerability, and her powerhouse vocals shine, particularly in Secret Love. Her comedic timing and physicality bring a freshness to the role, making her a delight to watch.
Vinny Coyle’s Wild Bill Hickok is smooth and charismatic, while he and Fletcher share solid chemistry, their romance lacks some of the tension and build-up needed to make their eventual union feel truly compelling. Seren Sandham-Davies impresses as Katie Brown, bringing charm and strong vocals to the role, while Luke Wilson’s Danny Gilmartin adds a confident baritone to the mix. The ensemble is tight, navigating the fast-paced staging with ease and ensuring that the energy never dips.
This production of Calamity Jane is an enjoyable, high-energy romp that succeeds in delivering fun, toe-tapping musical theatre. Carrie Hope Fletcher’s performance is the undeniable highlight, and the actor-musician approach adds a layer of dynamism to the show. However, the production can’t entirely escape the constraints of its source material—some of the humour feels outdated, and the story lacks the emotional depth to make it truly engaging. While nostalgia carries much of the show’s appeal, modern audiences may find certain elements harder to connect with. Still, for those looking for a feel-good night at the theatre, Calamity Jane offers plenty of lighthearted entertainment, even if it doesn’t quite hit the bullseye.
Calamity Jane is at the Manchester Opera House until Saturday 25th January 2025. Tickets are available for purchase through the link provided below.
If you would like more information about the show, please click the button below to visit the show's official website.
Photo Credit - Mark Senior
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