Calamity Jane

Murray Music and Drama’s production opens with a tribute and dedication to Doris Day, star of the movie Calamity Jane, who passed away May 13, 2019. I can’t help feeling that she would be touched by the dedication, and would have enjoyed this warm production.

Lori Anders, who is making somewhat of a specialty of playing quirky leading ladies, steps into Doris Day’s shoes in the title role, delivering an enigmatic, likeable performance, looking great in “deer skin' and “polishing up real fine” too. She worked well with Vincent Moore who was a forthright, capable Wild Bill Hickcock.

Kelly Cure stepped into her first leading role as Katie Brown, in a sweet performance, paired nicely, with Jarrad Thomas, a capable Lt. Danny Gil. This pair also wore some of the more stunning costumes, co-ordinated by Cathy Puzey.

In smaller roles, Adam Bond is competent as “theatre owner” Henry Miller, with Sarah Whicker working hard and delightful as his neice Susan. MMDC’s cabaret seating meant I was sitting with a lovely pair of ladies, whose favourite performance was Andy Peckover’s Francis Fryer, while Charmian Oliffe charmed as an elegant if brutal Adelaide Adams.

Music was well provided by Kenn Ellis on piano.

A lovely atmosphere at the packed to the brim matinee for this classic musical, full of well-loved songs.

Kimberley Shaw