Calamity Jane the Musical – Waterside Theatre, Aylesbury and Touring

Carrie Hope Fletcher and the cast of Calamity Jane at the Waterside Theatre, Aylesbury and Touring. Picture: Mark Senior

Calamity Jane the Musical was reviewed at the Waterside Theatre, Aylesbury where it continues until 18 January 2025. The tour continues until 27 September 2025.

Star rating: four stars ★ ★ ★ ★ ✩

This revival of the Watermill Theatre’s whip crackin’ production of Calamity Jane kicks off its UK and Ireland tour this week at the Waterside Theatre, Aylesbury. Starring multi-award-winning West End performer Carrie Hope Fletcher as Calamity, the show promises wholesome fun for all the family.

Based on the 1953 film starring Doris Day, the musical follows the adventures of the fearless, gun slingin’ Calamity from Deadwood in South Dakota. The story centres around her unrequited love for Lieutenant Danny Gilmartin (Luke Wilson); her efforts to bring the huge star, actress Adelaide Adams, to town; and her own journey of self-discovery. The narrative is fast-paced and full of comic misadventures, lighthearted humour and heartfelt moments of vulnerability.

It’s easy to see why Fletcher has gained such a standing in the theatre world – she steals the show as Calamity. Her sparkling stage presence and powerful, versatile voice are an effortless match for the spirited character that she plays. Even though the production mirrors lots of recognisable scenes from the film, Fletcher brings her own take to Calamity’s complex character; she’s fierce yet tender, bold yet self-depreciating and an absolute delight to watch.

The three other prominent characters are also noteworthy; Vinny Coyle as Wild Bill Hickok, Wilson as Danny and Seren Sandham-Davies as Katie Brown. The predominantly actor-musician casts brings energy and enthusiasm to the production which propels the show forward and makes it fun and enigmatic. Their talent is undeniable as they smoothly transition from character work to singing, dancing and playing their instruments.

The score that the band performs is a joyous and catchy mix of country and show tunes – uptempo, melancholy, romantic. With songs like ‘Secret Love’ and ‘The Black Hills of Dakota’, the music captures the essence of both the time and the characters’ personal journeys. Much like the set and costumes designed by Matthew Wright, which beautifully depict the dusty saloons and simplistic log cabins of the Wild West. I also loved how props like tables and chairs were used to represent the stagecoach – the use of coconut shells to mimic the sound of the horses’ hooves really made me and the rest of the audience laugh.

This production, directed by Nikolai Foster alongside co-director and choreographer Nick Winston, is an uplifting experience that mixes wit, charm and musical magic. If you’re looking for a show that is both entertaining and emotionally satisfying, Calamity Jane is sure to leave you humming and smiling long after the curtain falls.

Hannah Grimmette