Calamity Jane rides into Carshalton (From Wimbledon Guardian)

Calamity Jane rides into Carshalton

10:42am Friday 23rd October 2009

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Carshalton will be transformed into the Old West this week when the Charles Cryer Theatre plays host to the Lyric Players’ new spectacular, Calamity Jane.

Made famous thanks to the 1953 film starring Doris Day, the musical will document the life, loves and adventures of the iconic frontierswoman.

And Jamie McClandish, who serves as publicity officer for the group while also popping up in the chorus, reckons audiences are in for a real treat.

He says: “We are trying really hard to create that Wild West theme within the theatre.

“The Charles Cryer is quite a small theatre but we have still managed to get a saloon bar, a wagon and everything you expect in there.

“It is a great show to come and watch - it is very exciting and has a great story.

“It is full of emotion and great music - people will go away tapping their feet all the way home.”

Whitney Jackson takes on the mantle of the titular character, with a packed troupe of supporting cast members.

And McClandish reveals that was one of the attractions of the project.

He adds: “Not only is there lots of great songs, but there are also a lot of parts and some fantastic characters.

“It meant we could get loads of people involved and it is a lot of fun for everybody.

”The theatre is a very intimate venue and everybody will get a real close-up of the action.

“The other thing with Calamity Jane is that it is such a well-known character and musical.

“It is one of those shows that even if you have not seen it you have probably heard of it and that really counts in our favour.

“When we tell people we are doing it a lot of them know what you are talking about, but when you tell them some of the songs they definitely remember those.”

Those songs, including the likes of Secret Love and Just Blew In From The Windy City, are worked into a plot that will be overseen by director James Fortune.

And McClandish explains Fortune may well throw in a few surprises.

He reveals: “James has been able to run with it really and he has certainly put his stamp on things.

“Apart from being a director he also dabbles in magic, so I think we can expect to see some magic work its way into the script somehow!”

Calamity Jane, Charles Cryer Theatre, Carshalton, November 3-7, 7.45pm, £12.50/£13.50, 0208 770 699 0

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