@ King’s Theatre, Glasgow, until Sat 20 Jun 2015 and
@ Perth Concert Hall, from Tue 14 Jul – Sat 18 Jul 2015
A feel good adaptation based on the 1953 Doris Day film, Nikolai Foster’s Calamity Jane, delivered by the Watermill Theatre Company tells the lightly biographical story of Jane’s attempt to bring star Adelaide Adams to perform in Deadwood, South Dakota.
Taking on the strong female role of whip-cracking Calamity is the rhapsodical winner of BBC television series I’d Do Anything, Jodie Prenger – who does true justice to Day’s original portrayal by delivering an entertaining interpretation of the original frontierswoman. Despite inevitable similarities, Prenger demonstrates unique individuality with undeniably powerful vocal ability and a real connection with her audience.
The multi talented cast also includes Tom Lister (ITV’s Emmerdale) in the role of Wild Bill Hickok (originally played by Howard Keel) whose comedic timing and rich vocals fit effectively with Prenger. Other notable performances include Sophia Ragavelas (Jesus Christ Superstar, The Witches of Eastwick) as ultra feminine Katie Brown and Bobby Delaney as hilarious (and non gender conforming!) Francis Fryer.
Nick Winston’s imaginative choreography ensures that scene changes are seamless. His use of minimalism and simplicity is delivered in such a creative manner that he, and only he, could convincingly piece together a horse drawn carriage from an upright piano and a few umbrellas. This is enhanced by the vibrant musicianship of the all singing, all dancing cast.
The soundtrack does not disappoint – including iconic favourites such as The Deadwood Stage, I Can Do Without You, The Windy City, The Black Hills of Dakota and Academy Award Winning Secret Love. Also featured is a new upbeat track, Careless with the Truth, written specifically for Foster’s adaptation. The shared passion really shines from this thrilling accumulation of talent, who not only sing and dance but also play the musical instruments that orchestrate the soundtrack. A brilliant performance that cannot be faulted.