Review: Inverness Opera Company present Calamity Jane at Eden Court, Inverness
When big theatrical companies put on a new show, they let a few days pass before inviting critics along. Amateur companies don’t have that luxury as they tend to have short runs.
It’s a harsh reality of life, and I suspect that if I was in the audience tonight watching Inverness Opera Company’s latest outing, the rollicking musical, Calamity Jane, there would be no sign of first-night nerves, but for the first few numbers on opening night they troubled Calamity (Debbie McDonnell) and it took her a little while to find her fine singing voice.
Not so her role. Debbie filled Calamity’s buckskin boots perfectly and was totally convincing as the gun-totting gal who tries to out-shoot and out-brag every man in Deadwood City. Considering she only joined the company last year, she made a remarkable debut as did Alison Ozog who played Calamity’s chum, Katie Brown.
Company stalwart, Martin Anderson, was equally compelling as the witty and charming Wild Bill Hickok while experienced performer, Sasha Devine, almost stole the show as showgirl, Miss Adelaide Adams. Full marks too to the dancers who performed some pretty energetic routines which included the Can Can and splits!
Having found its feet, the show cracked on apace, offering the audience a night packed with plenty of laughs, thrills, spills and numerous Oscar-nominated numbers including The Deadwood Stage (Whip-Crack-Away!), Windy City and the showstopping, all ensemble number, Black Hills of Dakota. There were also lots of lesser known numbers while a clever set and sound effects had you believing the wild west was just around the corner.
Always a company that punches above its weight, this was another good production and one which had the audience singing and clapping along throughout. If you’re in the mood for entertainment that will lift your spirits, this is the show for you.
Calamity Jane is at Eden Court until Saturday, March 28.