A WHIP-CRACKING NIGHT OUT - CALAMITY JANE UK TOUR 2025 REVIEW | ROBBIE'S BACKSTAGE BANTS

Last night, I had the pleasure of attending the regional Press Night of the touring production of Calamity Jane at Hull New Theatre! I would like to thank Rachel and the team at Hull for the invite and such a warm reception. In this review, I’ll detail my thoughts and opinions about this production of a musical that is over 70 years old — which poses one question: is it dated, or delightful? Either way, it brings boots, banter, and ballads to a buzzing audience!

Calamity Jane is a musical Western with a plot centred around the historical frontierswoman Calamity Jane. While based on a real figure, the plot itself is far from historical. The original stage production premiered in 1961, adapted from the 1953 movie musical starring Doris Day, with music by Sammy Fain and lyrics by Paul Francis Webster. Now, 72 years on from the film’s release, Carrie Hope Fletcher takes to the stage in the iconic role, touring the UK in a production that originated at The Watermill and previously toured in 2015 starring Jodie Prenger.

It’s important to recognise the age of the material when going to see “legit” musical theatre — or even plays, for that matter. While major sections of inappropriate content have been removed from this and many other musicals of the same era, not everything can be. Calamity Jane’s plot centres around sexism and tackles it in a roundabout, comedic way. It’s crucial to the storyline, and I think it’s handled extremely well.

The collaboration of Sammy Fain and Paul Francis Webster on the music and lyrics for Calamity Jane is a wonder to behold. Every number is catchy, clever, and — most impressively — perfectly fitting to the Western style of the piece (who knew you could write so many different Western-style songs!?). There are six songs in the stage musical that don’t feature in the movie, and judging by the audience’s enjoyment, you’d never guess which ones they are (unless you already knew, of course!). I was even second-guessing myself — either way, Hull LOVED the music! Featuring classic tunes such as The Black Hills of Dakota, Secret Love, and The Deadwood Stage, you’re bound to go home with a toe-tapping tune stuck in your head.

Carrie Hope Fletcher struts the Deadwood Stage in leather boots, playing the sharp-shootin’ title role of Calamity Jane. This was a huge standout performance — every move and moment in the show was commanded by her exceptional stage presence. Having seen Fletcher in two shows previously, I can say her versatility as a performer is completely mind-blowing. Her larger-than-life portrayal of the quick-talking “Calam” is a delight to watch, and her comedic timing is second to none. If you’re unsure about seeing this production, see it solely for Fletcher’s performance — you will not be disappointed. Her vocals are also unmatched — whether she’s singing lively numbers like Just Blew In from the Windy City or soft ballads like Secret Love, her voice is impeccable. Secret Love was performed so beautifully, it had many audience members sniffling. I’m thrilled that the company has released a studio version of her singing that particular number.

Moving on to Vinnie Coyle as Wild Bill Hickok. Coyle’s performance was also magnificent. He maintained the rough and tough character you’d expect, often teaching Calamity Jane a lesson or jabbing her with comments about being a “proper” lady. But this masterclass in acting only helped create a bigger contrast when we saw Bill’s emotional walls come crashing down in Act Two during a heart-to-heart with Calamity. Paired with outstanding acting chops, Coyle also has a lovely singing voice and plays guitar too. He’s wonderfully cast as Wild Bill and was the perfect match to Fletcher’s Calamity — a pairing that’s truly mastered onstage chemistry!

The role of excitable, budding actress Kate Brown is played by Seren Sandham-Davies. What struck me immediately was her bubbly energy, which gave her great freedom with the show’s comedic aspects. We watch her character grow throughout the piece, with some great vocal moments and fabulous onstage chemistry with her romantic interest Danny, played by Luke Wilson. Their duet, Love You Dearly, was just one of many spine-tingling moments in the show.

Another standout duo would have to be Francis Fryer and Susan, played by Samuel Holmes and Hollie Cassar respectively. From Holmes’ entrance, I knew his performance would be enjoyable — he brought a ton of energy and plenty of laughs. But as a duo, Holmes and Cassar shone bright. They had a few fantastic dance moments too, which they glided through with grace.

One thing that makes this production stand tall above the rest is its use of actor-musicians. The entire ensemble, along with many leads and supporting cast members, play instruments throughout the show. This elevated the production to new, unimaginable heights — not only were they playing the show’s score live, but the instruments were cleverly used for sound effects (like a horse’s whinny or clip-clopping hooves!) and even scenery, such as using a piano to represent a carriage. I’m a big advocate for actor-musicians in shows like this — and this production gets it absolutely spot on!

This touring production is directed by Nikolai Foster, who delivers a strong, clear vision of The Deadwood Stage and presents it fantastically. I’m a big fan of Foster’s direction, and seeing his work on tour was a real treat. Paired with Nick Winston’s choreography, which is slotted perfectly into numerous dance breaks, the show flows beautifully. Winston is a marvellous choreographer — every move feels intentional and is tightly woven into the style of this Western musical.

I also really liked the set, which transports us right into Deadwood, Dakota. Hull New Theatre’s stage was cleverly transformed into a saloon, the stage of which cleverly donned the same curtain as was presented to the audience as we entered the auditorium. The performers wore stunning period costumes — the most iconic being Calamity Jane’s signature fringed look, and her beautiful ballgown in Act Two. Designed by Matthew Wright, the set and costumes worked seamlessly with Tim Mitchell’s lighting design.

So, to answer my question: is Calamity Jane dated or delightful? Seventy-two years after the Doris Day movie premiered in 1953, this show is one of the most delightful things to see in 2025. From catchy tunes to stellar casting, there really is something for everyone. Its unique take on the musical Western has paved the way for its legacy and secured its place as a true timeless classic. Overall, I cannot recommend this show enough — it oozes charm and leaves you feeling warm inside. I left the theatre with the biggest smile on my face. If you’re looking for a whip-cracking night out, head to Calamity Jane on tour and be transported to the Black Hills of Dakota for a wild ride!

The UK touring production of Calamity Jane is currently playing at Hull New Theatre until Saturday, 26th July, before continuing with its final 8 weeks of tour.

Tickets for the remainder of the Hull run can be found [here].

The rest of the production’s tour dates can be found [here].

If you’ve seen the show, let me know what you thought! Don’t forget to sign up for email notifications below, follow me on social media, and subscribe on YouTube so you don’t miss any stagey content!

Press Invite | Hull New Theatre 

23rd July 2025 

Robbie Davies | Robbie’s Backstage Bants