2006, Calamity Jane

Directed by Lynne Counsel and Maxine Lemcke, MD Ian Lowe, with Eltham Orchestra

SHOW PROGRAM

Doing Calamity Jane after Oklahoma meant the same style of work, but not so well-known. Auditions were held for Calamity Jane and the rules were changed so that members of the auditioning panel could not audition. This kept Graham and Julie from auditioning, but both had an opportunity when the Katie and Danny both dropped out, and Julie got the role of Katie. After the auditions the rule was reversed again. Calamity Jane was given to Meg Warren with John Leahy as Wild Bill Hickock. Darren Rosenfeld was back to do Frances Fryer. 

Before we knew it Calamity Jane had started and was very successful. Disaster (‘calamity’?) struck the show just prior to opening when we arrived at the theatre to discover that several sets had fallen and were badly damaged. PVA, canvas and a new coat of paint were applied and all was well.

Though not as popular as Oklahoma, Calamity Jane sold more tickets than Brigadoon, though that didn’t have as many performances. The reaction of the audience was very positive, particularly with regard to Meg and the chorus singing. However, stealing the show were Meg and Julie’s children, Hanna and Ben with Brianna Flint, in the wedding scene at the end; see top photo.