“Calamity Jane” provides rip-roaring, laugh-out-loud, stamp-the-floor fun with a smidgen of social commentary, in-house jokes, and songs aplenty—just what we need in these “interesting times.”

It’s old-fashioned fun that reminded me of regional Queensland local Arts productions, where everyone (cast and audience) knows everyone and can add a few in-house jokes to spice up the plot. You have to be quick to catch the allusions. The cast sang, danced, yaa-hooed, and brought the audience to our feet time and time again, sometimes scripted (get to your feet) and sometimes spontaneously. The quips were fast and furious for those who could keep up. Whip cracking comments paid homage to Virginia Gay, the first Calamity in the earlier southern production, international affairs, and the change in attitude towards guns since the Wild West days.

Naomi Price shines as Calamity Jane. She sings and dances, throws off lines and ad-libs as she interacts with the audience members, shaking hands and engaging them in the action.

Andrew Buchanan, as Henry Miller, the owner of the Golden Garter saloon, brings a charming naiveity to his character.

Juliette Coates stumped me with her character changes. She convincingly transforms from the naive and charming Susan Miller (definitely Henry’s niece) and the sophisticated Adelaide Adams.

Laura Bunting was the “star” of the Golden Garter, tripping over mistaken identity, unpractised sophistication, and good old-fashioned charm to bring Katie Brown to life and love.

Sean Sinclair’s character of Lieutenant Danny, the love of Jane’s life, grows as he ambles innocently through the plot.

Darcy Brown’s job was to entertain. He pulled it off impeccably, retaining that Doris Day magic and adding the lost boy feeling.

Anthony Gooley as Wild Bill Hickock was ham itself.  Strutting, retorting, snorting, and loving with gusto, his character was the perfect foil for Naomi Price’s Jane.

This is a large group effort with creatives aplenty. It works. It creates magic, and it relieves the anxieties we bring from the outside world. Great for your mental health.

For a foot tapping, smart arsed, straight-talking night out, highly recommended.

At Billie Brown until 17th April 2025.

Book here: https://queenslandtheatre.com.au/plays/calamity-jane

 

Kerry McGovern