HOPS Musical Theatre Company in whip-cracking form in Calamity Jane - bringing polished, impressive, tune-packed, old-fashioned musical to Harrogate Theatre
There are some shows that wrap themselves around you like a hug, filling you with nostalgia, warmth and the joy of being entertained. Calamity Jane is one of those shows.
I was invited to one of the final rehearsals of HOPS Musical Theatre Company's production of the musical which opens at Harrogate Theatre next week.
HOPS has built a deserved reputation for producing theatre of a high standard. Its productions combine superb singing, impressive production values and performances that would not look out of place on a professional stage. Calamity Jane continues that tradition, delivering all the charm and familiarity of the much-loved musical while showcasing the talent within the company.
There is something comforting about the show. In a theatre landscape often dominated by contemporary productions, Calamity Jane feels like slipping into your favourite pair of slippers.
It is familiar, reassuring and full of heart. At its core, it is a story about friendship, identity and accepting people for who they are – themes that resonate with modern audiences.
The production captures everything that has made the show endure for generations. For newcomers, it is a perfect introduction to classic musical theatre, packed with memorable songs, colourful characters, comedy and emotion.
Director and choreographer Mike Kirkby deserves credit for bringing the production vividly to life.
Remaining faithful to the show's traditional charm, he focuses on telling the story with clarity, warmth and humour. Particularly impressive is the way he has woven scene changes into the action itself, with cast members seamlessly moving scenery and props while remaining fully immersed in the world of the show.
Alongside some lovely directorial touches that bring out the personalities and relationships between the characters, every detail has been carefully considered.
The result is a production that is polished, vibrant and entertaining.
The ensemble work is outstanding. The cast create the bustling atmosphere of the Golden Garter, where much of Act One takes place.
Every member of the company contributes to the storytelling, creating a believable world full of lively interactions and distinct personalities. Characterisation is strong across the board, and the relationships between principal characters, supporting roles and ensemble members feel natural and authentic.
Musically, the show is in very safe hands under musical director Jim Lunt. The quality of the singing throughout the company is exceptional. Harmonies are beautifully balanced, dynamics carefully shaped and Jim's musical direction allows every voice to shine while creating a wonderfully cohesive company sound.
They will be accompanied by a full orchestra for the show’s run.
Leading the company is Nina Jackson-Logue as Calamity Jane and it is difficult to imagine more perfect casting. This is a huge role, demanding stamina, comic timing, strong vocals and emotional depth, and Nina delivers all of it with apparent ease.
She captures the grit, determination and cheeky spirit associated with Doris Day's famous portrayal while bringing her own warmth and personality to the character. Her rendition of Secret Love is a genuine highlight.
Opposite her, Rich Hawley is wonderfully smooth as Wild Bill Hickok. He looks at home in the role and shares excellent chemistry with Nina, with their playful banter gradually developing into something deeper. Vocally, Higher Than a Hawk is beautifully delivered, while Adelaide provides a special musical moment, supported by glorious harmonies from the male ensemble.
Louiza Noland is perfectly cast as Katie Brown, bringing warmth, grace and charm to the role. Arriving from Chicago under false pretences, Katie's confidence steadily blossoms as her friendship with Calamity develops. Louiza's beautiful acting and singing make that transformation believable, creating a character the audience quickly takes to their hearts.
Providing a lovely contrast to Calamity's rough-and-ready nature, she helps create one of the show's most endearing friendships, with A Woman's Touch beautifully performed.
Making his HOPS debut, George Dickson impresses as Lieutenant Daniel Gilmartin. Every inch the dashing young officer, he has the girls swooning from the moment he appears. His strong vocals shine particularly in Love You Dearly alongside Louiza.
Jack Moran brings energy and charisma to Francis Fryer. The mistaken identity storyline generates plenty of laughs, and Jack embraces every moment with infectious enthusiasm. His performance of Everyone Complains About the Weather is pure old-fashioned entertainment.
Christine Bell adds elegance, beauty and wonderful dance ability as Susan.
Another impressive HOPS debut comes from Ashli Campagna as Adelaide Adams. She brings sophistication, glamour and genuine star quality to the role.
Emma Swales is terrific as Golden Garter owner Henrietta Miller. Constantly stressed and seemingly on the brink of a nervous breakdown, she creates a wonderfully bold comic character and delivers plenty of laughs.
One of the production’s highlights comes from Gary Holmes as Rattlesnake. His characterisation is superb, creating a lovable hillbilly character full of warmth and humour. Every appearance brings a smile and adds enormously to the heart of the show.
The costumes make an immediate impact, helping to bring the world of Deadwood vividly to life. Thoughtfully chosen and full of character, they not only evoke the spirit of the Wild West but also help define the personalities of those wearing them. Alongside the energetic staging and attention to detail elsewhere, they contribute to a production that already looks polished and visually impressive.
Behind the scenes, credit must also go to the backstage crew whose hard work ensures everything runs smoothly.
The score is packed with wonderful numbers including Deadwood Stage (Whip-Crack-Away), I Can Do Without You, The Black Hills of Dakota, Secret Love and Windy City.
If you are looking for a night at the theatre that will make you laugh, warm your heart and send you home humming the songs, Calamity Jane should be at the top of your list.
Settle into your seat and allow yourself to be transported back to the golden age of musical theatre.
Calamity Jane runs at Harrogate Theatre from Tuesday June 9 to Saturday June 13.
Performances are Tuesday June 9 to Friday June 12, daily at 7.30pm and on Saturday June 13 at 2pm and 7pm.
Tickets are available through the Harrogate Theatre box office on 01423 502116 and on line at: https://www.harrogatetheatre.co.uk/events/calamity-jane-the-musical/