Calamity Jane is a 1960s musical adaptation from a ’50s film starring Doris Day. The merits of the musical are actually irrelevant to this production which explodes with such sing/acting/dancing/musical talent from the cast that even a fairly trite plot is engaging, funny and poignant.

Virginia Gay plays Calamity  to perfection. She looks just right and her vocal skills are well showcased in the variety of genres which she sings. Her skill is such that even though the play is quite self referential and there are many jokes which work to draw her out of her character she is still so endearing in her character that I was moved by her declaration of love at the finale. I saw her last year  ( in Hidden Sydney) and swore I would never miss her in a live performance… and I shall keep my promise.

Anthony Gooley and Sheridan Harbridge are very experienced multi talented actors whom I have seen ( and reviewed ) many times. They are both outstanding. Sheridan has a beautiful voice and is very comfortable in this genre. Anthony is a serious multi-award winning actor and it was a pleasure to see him in this light hearted piece.

The rest of the cast are all capable and the ensemble work is beautifully judged.

I loved the way the stage was utilised in this production and ‘audience participation’ which is usually cringe-worthy was brilliantly incorporated into the script.

This is such a winning production that it is probably going to be sold out within five minutes .. so do not delay in purchasing tickets.