Viva Youth Theatre goes from strength to
strength. The production of “Calamity Jane” was an amazing experience that
left members of the audience humming appreciatively as they left Soham
Village College knowing that they had seen one of the best productions in
the district.
A large cast of highly talented performers lit up the stage in a series of
delightful, natural and joyous choruses. Identifiable characters swept
engagingly through enthralling scenes and beautiful dancers graced the
action with exquisite movements – what more could one want?. Most noticeable
of all was the skill of producers Dan Schumann and Angela Bocking in
presenting a wonderfully cohesive show. Expansive characterisation, first
rate singing with warm and full-bodied harmony and a seamless flow of
splendidly devised choreography left members of the audience feeling a glow
of satisfaction.
Rootin’, tootin’, shootin’ Calamity Jane (played by Shellie Baigent) led a
fine list of characters. Her generous lithe moments, her larger-than –life
story telling and her fine singing made her gradual transformation into a
‘real woman’ captivating. Her patient and understanding friend Wild Bill
Hickock (James Mellor) touched the heart with his moving singing. Other key
characters included the beautiful Miss Katie Brown (Hetti Wood), the proud,
handsome Lieutenant Danny Gilmartin (Lee Sherwood), the much-troubled
manager and father Henry Miller (Mickey Kowalcyk), the charming Susan Millar
(Hannah Schunmann) with her infectious giggle, her beloved Michael Crawford
look-a-like Frances Fryer (Daniel
Bell). the buxom, alluring Adelaide Adams (Jessica Clegg), the bearded
Rattlesnake (Daniel White), the very elderly Doc. Pierce (Ollie Ellerton),
Joe (Craig Carpenter), Colonel Scully (Ashley Gilmour) and Pete (Liam
Walls).
The splendid singing was supported by a superb band. With the pianist
revelling in the schmaltzy flamboyance of memorable popular songs that
packed the show, the band helped create the spirit of uninhibited joy that
permeated this marvellous musical. The band members were: Stephen Kenna
(leader and pianist), Melody Bell (keys), Alan Grayer (Bass), Kathy Faebler
(violin), Tessa Shepherd and Mark Bell (woodwind), Jamie Clay (trumpet),
Simon Thompson (trombone), Ant Fox and Mark Ellis (drums).
Costumes, scenery and props (including a rather amazing stage coach) were
excellent and the fine production team made this show an amazingly
successful and highly entertaining experience which was summed up
beautifully by the two young lads who added an impromptu “Yi ha!” as they
left the stage at the end of this joyous performance.
Dr. Rosemary Westwell
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