I wasn’t convinced Calamity Jane was going to my favourite kind of show and if I’m completely honest, I wasn’t too wrong. Nevertheless, I went in with an open mind and there’s no denying it’s a brilliantly energetic production with some toe-tapping tunes albeit they do get repetitive with reprises aplenty. Though, from the first strum of that banjo to the final bow, it’s a high-energy experience that is bound to entertain and this cast sure do entertain.

What immediately stands out is the seamless integration of the band into the storytelling. They’re not just musicians off to the side, but an essential part of the on-stage world. I enjoyed seeing the music dance across the stage in a real hoedown. I also loved how effective the instruments and the smoking pipe were in the train scene in which the instruments cleverly mimic the rhythm of the train and the pipe adds that chefs kiss of theatrical flair.

Carrie Hope Fletcher leads the cast with undeniable presence, but it’s her rendition of “Secret Love” that truly stops time. The emotional weight she brings to the song, combined with her effortless vocals, is reason enough to buy a ticket. It’s a genuine show-stopper that lingers long after the curtain falls. I often found my eye wandering to hone in on Fletcher and she owned the role enough to give it the Calamity Jane heart whilst bringing her own personality and take.

While I’ll admit I wasn’t sold on the show at the start, it grew on me as the first act progressed. By the time Act Two arrived, I was fully swept up in the wild charm of Deadwood.

Bill’s role portrayed by Vinny Coyle was a highlight for me. He’s charming, smug, and a great foil to Calamity’s larger-than-life spirit. Seren Sandham‑Davies charms as Katie Brown with strong vocals, wit, and warmth, shining in her duet “A Woman’s Touch”, despite having a slightly rushed character arc from small-town newbie to shining star.

Richard Lock’s bow-legged and toothless Rattlesnake steals scenes with comic charm, bold physicality, and true Wild West character flair. Samuel Holmes shines as Francis Fryer with comic timing, infectious charm, standout tap-dancing and a memorable “Hive Full of Honey”. He is definitely my favourite supporting role of the tour.

Visually, Matthew Wright’s staging is a rustic delight capturing Deadwood’s charm with sepia tones and wooden textures. Cleverly staged with a dual-level saloon filled with actor come musicians, it beautifully intertwines intimacy and energy. The choreography bursts with Wild West spirit, full of twirls, stomps, and toe-tapping hoedowns that matches the score’s energy.

Calamity Jane is a joyful show with plenty of heart.

On at Curve until Saturday 12th July 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️

Press tickets for review