Our reviewer Jed Finnigan took himself down to The Manchester Opera House to be propelled back to 1870s gold rush Dakota.
Calamity Jane is in town, causing all sorts of mayhem.
The show initially takes a little time to get going, with the ensemble serenading us with Black Hills of Dakota.
But it isn’t long before Calamity (Carrie Hope Fletcher) is rolling in on a make shift wagon blasting out Deadwood Stage an early indication of Fletchers powerful voice.
The male leads a introduced in quick succession. Wild Bill Hickok (Vinny Coyle) and Lt Danny Gilmartin provide the love interests.
And the comedy is provided by Henry Miller (Peter Peverley) and Francis Fryer (Isaac Savage). Savage gives a fine comic performance dressed as a woman.
Calamity is soon setting off to Chicago in an attempt to bring back famous actor Adelaid Adams. Interesting use of a piano, chairs and wagon wheels in the journey sequence.
Before you know it she has returned with the maid Katie Brown (Seren Sandham-Davies).
Overall it was an enjoyable evening. Although it was noted that any trace of Native American Indians has been written out of this production, no doubt to cater for modern sensibilities.
The show closes with excellent numbers from both female leads. Sandham-Davis with a sassy Tis Harry Im Planning To Marry.
But it was Fletcher who stoll the show with belting performance of Secret Love.
The audience in my vicinity seemed to have enjoyed their evening. I hope you do too.
