Queensland Theatre’s got a real rip-roarin’ hit on its hands with Calamity Jane! This show’s got heart, humour, and a whole lot of yeehaw, thanks to an all-star cast. Led by the dynamite Naomi Price, the gang brings the house down with top-notch performances. Richard Carroll’s sharp direction keeps things fresh while staying true to the spirit of the classic.
One of the standout features is the modernised script, bringing an unexpected yet highly entertaining edge to the classic musical. The dialogue, peppered with clever references, has the audience in stitches on opening night. Among the crowd favourites are lines about Cyclone Alfred and Elon Musk. This not only breaks the traditional mould of the original script (as well as the fourth wall) but also keeps the humour incredibly relevant and sharp. This isn’t your grandma’s Wild West, and that’s exactly what makes it so much fun.
At the heart of this uproarious production is Naomi Price, whose portrayal of Calamity Jane is vocally superb and deeply funny. Price brings a perfect blend of strength and vulnerability to the role, making Jane both fierce and endearing. Her comedic timing is impeccable, and her delivery feels as natural as a tumbleweed rolling across the plains. She gives a nod to Virginia Gay’s celebrated portrayal but makes the role undeniably her own.
Price’s energy fills the stage, commanding attention with every movement while her vocal prowess leaves the audience in awe. Her rendition of The Black Hills of Dakota is stirring and beautiful. Highlighting the emotional depth of Jane’s character, she brings just the right touch of cheekiness to keep her wild and free.
As Katie Brown, Laura Bunting delivers a performance that’s as sharp as a rattlesnake’s bite. She is musically stunning and comedically spot-on. Every note rings out with precision, while her comedic timing has the audience laughing faster than a quick-draw showdown. Bunting’s interactions with Price are as smooth as a well-worn saddle, providing the perfect foil to Calamity Jane’s brash and wild persona.
Juliette Coates makes their mainstage debut in the duals roles of Susan Miller and Adelaide Adams. Coates shines brighter than a desert sun, leaving a trail of dust and a lasting impression. Having recently graduated from the Queensland Academy of Excellence in Musical Theatre at Griffith University, Coates brings a delightful freshness to the stage. Coates’ portrayal is perfectly bubbly, exuding energy and charm. Their seamless comic precision sees Susan Miller’s naivety providing a hilarious contrast to the more worldly Adelaide Adams. It’s clear Coates is a rising star in Queensland’s theatre scene, and these performances cements them as one to watch.
As Henry Miller, Andrew Buchanan brings a charming presence to the stage. He effortlessly delivers a performance as warm as a campfire under the stars. Buchanan’s portrayal of Henry is grounded in sincerity. Yet he brings a sprinkle of humour that sees him stand tall like a desert cactus amidst the cast of dynamic characters.
Anthony Gooley’s portrayal of Wild Bill Hickok is another rootin’ tootin’ highlight of the show. His chemistry with Price sparks a dynamic that’s as lively as a gunfight, blending playful rivalry with a dose of genuine affection. Gooley’s Bill is endearing like a dusty old cowboy, with flaws as big as the Wild West itself and a confidence as bold as a stampede. His comedic delivery hits the mark every time, keeping the audience hooked and laughing with every scene he’s in.
Darcy Brown delivers a remarkable performance as Francis Fryar, embracing the character’s awkwardness with comedic timing that’s sharper than a six-shooter’s aim. His slapstick humour, well-timed pauses, and physical gags have the audience laughing like a saloon full of rowdy cowboys. Both hilarious and heartwarming, his portrayal brings a fresh breeze of levity to the show, like a cool wind across the open range.
Sean Sinclair’s natural charisma and smooth delivery as Lieutenant Danny has the audience rooting for him at every turn, making him the perfect match for Calamity (or is that Katie?).
Carroll’s directorial debut for Queensland Theatre is a downright high-noon showdown of success. He’s wrangled fresh energy into a classic, making the tale feel both as timeless as a desert sunrise and as new as a cowboy’s first ride. Carroll delivers a production that packs a punch, and is both moving like a dusty trail at sunset and entertaining like a wild frontier hoedown.
The musical direction by Nigel Ubrihien, who also appears as Rattlesnake, is a real showstopper. Ubrihien ropes in an authentic Wild West sound that’ll have you feeling like you’ve saddled up in Deadwood itself. His direction shines in the ensemble numbers, where the music kicks like a spurred boot and flows as smooth as a prairie breeze. The rich, dynamic tunes raise the cast’s fiery vocals to new heights, crafting a rollicking, immersive atmosphere that pulls you right into the heart of the frontier.
Queensland Theatre’s got itself a bonafide Wild West spectacle with Calamity Jane. From start to finish, this show is a wild ride packed with humour, heart, and high-octane performances. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a greenhorn just arriving in Deadwood, you won’t want to miss the adventure. Grab your hat, saddle up, and get ready for a rip-roarin’ good time. You’ll be reminiscing about this one around the campfire for years to come.
Queensland Theatre’s Calamity Jane runs until 17 April at the Bille Brown Theatre, 78 Montague Road South Brisbane 4101.
Tickets are on sale now!
Website: https://queenslandtheatre.com.au/
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/qld_theatre/
Photo credits: Morgan Roberts
