Whip crack away to the GOH.

St. Agnes' Choral Society's production of Calamity Jane at the Grand Opera House in Belfast opened last night , it is an exuberant and thoroughly entertaining experience.

Directed by Laura Kerr, the production brings the classic Broadway musical to life with a blend of heart, humour, and high energy. From the moment the curtain rises, the audience is swept away by the vibrant performances, lively choreography, and striking set design that transport us straight to the wild and colourful world of Deadwood, South Dakota.

Lorraine Jackson takes centre stage in the titular role of Calamity Jane, delivering a nuanced and spirited performance. Her portrayal of the rough-and-tumble, but ultimately tender-hearted, frontier woman is full of both grit and charm. Jackson’s voice shines throughout, especially in the show's iconic numbers like "The Black Hills of Dakota" and "Secret Love." Her chemistry with the other lead performers adds depth to her character's journey of self-discovery and unspoken romance.

Kyle Emerson as Wild Bill Hickok is another standout, captivating the entire theatre with his commanding presence and powerful voice. His vocal delivery in songs like "Iowa" is both emotive and dynamic, effortlessly drawing the audience’s attention. Emerson’s Wild Bill is suave yet sincere, adding an undeniable charm to the role that complements Jackson’s Calamity.

Gareth McGreevy’s portrayal of Lt. Danny Gilmartin is a wonderful balance of earnestness and wit, providing a perfect foil to Calamity’s tough exterior. McGreevy’s timing and charm make Danny’s affection for Calamity both endearing and believable. Aideen Fox as Katie Brown brings a lighthearted and playful energy to the stage, offering a delightful contrast to the more serious moments of the show. Her vocals, particularly in the duets with Calamity, are a treat.

The ensemble deserves special mention as well. Dressed in bright, eye-catching costumes that complement the lively atmosphere of the production, they bring an infectious energy to the stage. The choreography by Amy Blackshaw is a highlight, adding both flair and fun to the performance. The group numbers are perfectly executed, with the energetic dancing and vibrant ensemble vocals truly bringing the production to life. From the lively saloon scenes to the foot-tapping choreography, every movement feels perfectly in tune with the spirit of the musical.

The production is also visually stunning, with a well-crafted set that captures the frontier town of Deadwood in all its rugged beauty. The lighting design adds to the atmosphere, enhancing both the intimate moments and the grand, show-stopping numbers.

Overall, St. Agnes’ Choral Society's Calamity Jane is a thoroughly enjoyable production that showcases both the talent of its cast and the dedication of its creative team. The performances are captivating, the choreography is lively and inventive, and the overall energy of the show is contagious. If you’re looking for a night of lighthearted, toe-tapping entertainment with a generous helping of heart, this is a must-see production.

You don’t want to miss this one folks, get over to GOH.co.uk to snap up the last remaining tickets

Images by Nicole McKee Photography