Calendar Girls, presented by Red Tree Theatre, brings the heartwarming and humorous true story to life, capturing the essence of friendship and community spirit. Based on the inspiring tale of the Women’s Institute members who posed nude for a charity calendar, the play delves into the personal lives of these extraordinary women, highlighting their struggles, triumphs, and unwavering support for one another. The narrative beautifully balances comedy and tragedy, offering a poignant look at grief, resilience, and the power of solidarity.
The direction and creative design by Joshua Maxwell, with assistance from Isabella O’Brien, is a fine example of theatrical storytelling. Maxwell’s vision for the production is evident in every scene, from the seamless transitions to the evocative staging that perfectly captures the quaint charm of the Yorkshire village. The set design, characteristic of Maxwell’s other productions, ingeniously embeds outside scenes within the indoor settings, creating a seamless and dynamic backdrop for the unfolding drama. The thoughtful use of lighting and sound further enhances the emotional impact, effectively guiding the audience through the narrative’s highs and lows.
The ensemble cast deserves commendation for their truthful portrayal of minor characters, adding depth and authenticity to the production. Each actor brought a unique flavour to their role, contributing to the rich tapestry of the story. The accents, which can often be a challenging aspect of performance, were great throughout. The consistency and accuracy of the Yorkshire dialects added an extra layer of believability, immersing the audience fully in the setting.
The six leading women are a tour de force, each delivering a realistic and optimistic performance. Kathryn Peterson, as Cora, captures the character’s rebellious spirit and hidden vulnerabilities with finesse. Helen Herridge’s portrayal of Jessie is both endearing and inspiring, embodying the wisdom and wit of the older generation. Karen Pendleton brings a delightful charm to the role of Celia, while Debbi Clarke’s Ruth is a poignant study of loyalty and self-discovery.
Anna Carter’s performance as Annie is a standout, showcasing raw emotion as she navigates the grief of losing her husband. Her portrayal is touching and relatable, making her journey one of the emotional cores of the play. Ruth Jordan, as Chris, brings an emotionally nuanced role to life with highs and lows that keep the audience invested throughout. The dynamic between Chris and Annie is particularly noteworthy, capturing the essence of sisterly bickering and deep-seated affection. Their relationship offers a comforting anchor for the audience, reflecting the complex and often contradictory nature of close friendships.
I laughed and cried my way through the show, a testament to the production’s emotional depth and comedic brilliance. The blend of humour and pathos is expertly handled, ensuring the audience is consistently engaged. The play’s exploration of themes like friendship, loss, and community spirit is universal and deeply personal, resonating with viewers on multiple levels.
Calendar Girls is a must-see, and I would challenge anyone not to be moved by this show. The performances, direction, and overall production quality come together to create a theatrical experience that is uplifting and thought-provoking. I would encourage everyone to see this show and support the cause by picking up their very own Alternative WI Calendar, raising funds for the Leukemia Foundation. Red Tree Theatre’s Calendar Girls is a shining example of community theatre at its finest.
– The other Daniel Craig
Daniel Craig is an international performer and has established himself as a trusted theatre specialist on the Sydney Arts Scene. While he understands the technical side of theatre, Dan writes for the everyday theatregoer (unlike some of those more prominent publications). When not in the audience, he loves to travel the world trying new gin. Follow him on all the socials @talldancraig
Calendar Girls runs for 2 hours 15 minutes (including 20-minute interval) and plays at Red Tree Theatre through 10 August 2024. Tickets are available through Red Tree Theatre.
Disclosure: The Plus Ones were guests of Red Tree Theatre.
Image credit: James Beggs