Calamity Jane
Calamity Jane is a lively musical based on the real-life frontierswoman of the same name, featuring a mix of romance, comedy, and classic show tunes. Set in the Old West town of Deadwood, the story follows the rough-and-tumble Calamity as she tries to prove herself among the men, boasting of her exploits and shooting off at the mouth. When she mistakenly brings back the wrong performer for the local saloon, chaos ensues—especially when her long-time rival, Wild Bill Hickok, gets involved. As Calamity softens and discovers her true feelings, she undergoes a transformation, leading to a heartwarming conclusion. With beloved songs like “The Deadwood Stage,” “Windy City,” and “Secret Love,” the show delivers charm, humor, and toe-tapping energy.
Leading the cast as Calamity Jane is musical theatre royalty, Carrie Hope Fletcher. A consummate professional, Fletcher confidently portrays this live wire character with aplomb. Every musical moment is a delight to the ears, especially her heartfelt performance of “Secret Love” with that infamous Carrie belt which cements why she is one of the best voices in Theatreland. The on stage chemistry with Vinny Coyle as Wild Bill Hickok is strong. With their initial love/hate relationship, the to and fro between the pair is a joy to watch. Clearly a match made in heaven as they seal their relationship with a kiss.
Another stand out performer, bringing an array of comedic moments is Samuel Holmes as Francis Fryer. Delivering some fantastic lines with ease, and offering up some laugh out loud moments, he was a joy to watch!
The staging (Matthew Wright) transported us right into the heart of the Wild West and into the Golden Garter where the majority of the action took place. There was an authentic feel throughout, including the costuming (Matthew Wright) which was every inch perfect and true to the time period.
Another delightful addition to the show are the wonderful actor/musicians who dance around the stage with instruments in hand, or strapped to them in the case of the cellist and bassist! Their unwavering energy was infectious. The choreography by Nick Winston was full of fun and the group numbers shone.
If you’re looking for some Doris Day style nostalgia, some incredible tunes and an all round cracking time at the hoe down, then catch Calamity Jane out on its UK and Ireland Tour.
This show was reviewed on the 18th March 2025 at the Birmingham Hippodrome where it runs until the 22nd March 2025. Tickets available here: Calamity Jane – Birmingham Hippodrome
Full tour details can be found here: Calamity Jane the Musical | UK & Ireland Tour 2025
Review written by Emma Rowley
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Photo credit : Mark Senior
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