I’m a little embarrassed to say that I adored the 1950s Doris Day film so this musical comedy by the Watermill Theatre Production had a lot to live up to. And it didn’t disappoint.
From the outset the smoke-filled Western saloon bar vibrated with barn stomping cowboys and spirited musicians playing a variety of string and wind instruments – including, of course, banjos. Whilst the American accents left a little to be desired, the voices certainly didn’t.
Within about five minutes of the show starting I was in raptures over the rousing chorus of “The Dead Wood Stage” – which most of us know better as the “Whip Crack Away” song. “The Black Hills of Dakota” was another favourite that hit all the right notes too.
The story focuses on Calamity Jane who wears men’s clothes and tells tall tales whilst running around the Wild West protecting the mail from Indians and villains. How original to have such an independent, funny and strong female lead – and who cares if she gets herself into some interesting scrapes?
Her trip to Chicago to secure the services of a famous actress leads to that other famous tune “Windy City” and her mistake leads to some female rivalry for the guy she thinks she adores.
The lead is played by TV reality and musical star Jodie Prenger. Fortunately she is so different from the blonde, slim, sweetness of Doris that comparisons are avoided. She stamps her formidable personality and style on the role and it is richer, more credible character as a result. And she can sure belt those memorable tunes. It was an enthusiastic and confident performance. Included too is the Oscar winning song "Secret Love". Tom Lister does some fine singing as Wild Bill Hickok – and looks so dashing in his black long coat ensemble.
Naturally, the show will appeal to those who remember the original but I suspect that the gun-toting cowboys and strong musical arrangements will broaden its appeal to a whole new generation. It was an entertaining evening.
The show runs at Wimbledon until 21st March and then tours the UK. But it will appear in Richmond, Surrey on 4th - 8th August.
Further details here
http://www.atgtickets.com/shows/calamity-jane/new-wimbledon-theatre/
http://www.calamityjanetheshow.com/
