THE LOWRY, SALFORD – UNTIL SATURDAY 20TH JANUARY 2024
REVIEWED BY MIA BOWEN
4****
Calendar Girls is a touching tale that is inspired by true events and revolves around a close-knit group of ordinary women from a small Yorkshire Woman’s Institute. After the untimely loss of one of their husbands due to cancer, they are encouraged to undertake something remarkable and decide to create a nude calendar as a fundraising initiative for charity. The story highlights the personal challenges each of them faces and emphasises the immense support they provide for one another.
Calendar Girls the Musical is a production that stays true to the original storyline of the film (2003) and play (2009), but it adds a new dimension by incorporating music written by Gary Barlow and Tim Firth. The songs are not the easiest to listen to or sing due to the use of cross-singing/talking and unconventional rhythms and melodies. Whether you enjoy these songs or not is a matter of personal taste. While they are quite different from the more background music in the film composed by Patrick Doyle, they add a quirky element that complements the show without taking away from its essence.
Witnessing the performance was a delightful experience, as I observed the audience members around me becoming captivated by the narrative and responding with both laughter and tears. The superb performances by the seven female leads showcased their exceptional character portrayals, and I relished the opportunity to form a connection with each individual character as the show progressed.
The theme of death evokes strong emotions, but this production cleverly weaves in humour and conveys an uplifting message. Before taking part in posing nude, the women must overcome personal challenges, inhibitions, doubts, and inner struggles. They courageously embrace their vulnerability, leading to triumphant moments. Every member of the cast radiates positive energy, sparking a ripple effect of positivity among the audience.
I particularly enjoyed Lyn Paul’s performance as Jessie, singing ‘What Age Expects’ and Maureen Nolan as Ruth singing ‘My Russian Friend And I’. This production is very relevant and can easily resonate with people facing similar situations.
This musical is simple good, honest humour. It captures the essence of friendship, community, and the strength of women. From beginning to end, it is both inspiring and beautiful.