REVIEW: Calender Girls The Musical - Liverpool Empire Theatre

Wednesday night was the Press night performance of Gary Barlow and Tim Firth's award-winning production of  Calendar girls. The show which is based on a true story tells the heartwarming tale about a group of women who embark on achieving something extraordinary in memory of a loved one. The Liverpool Empire theatre was packed to capacity and the audience were enthralled by the two act  performance.

The show runs at the Empire from 27th November until 1st December and features an all star cast including Fern Britton, Lorraine Bruce, Anna-Jayne Casey, Sara Crowe, Ruth Madoc, Rebecca Storm and Denise Welch. David Pugh and Dafydd Rogers produced the musical comedy written by Gary Barlow and Tim Firth. It is based on the film of the same title and is an emotive and endearing show which shows the camaraderie that exists between members of the Women's Institute in Yorkshire.

Having not seen the film, I was unsure of what to expect. Whilst I knew the premise of the story, I entered the theatre without expectation. The first half seemed slow in pace however set the scene of the story-line. The cast performed the numbers with passion and interacted beautifully with each other. The story explores the relationships that develop between the friends and residents of postcard village Cracoe and their efforts to raise funds for a settee in loving memory of John Baker who passed away after being diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

What strikes you with this show is the depth of emotion that is portrayed by the cast as they deliver the musical numbers both as solos and as a collective. There is one scene where they are united in their grief and they stand poised in silence. It is very powerful. That said, the show is not all sombre. There are several scenes interlaced with humour and lightheartedness. The younger members of the cast often delivering the wittiest of dialogue. Tyler Dobbs as Tommo, Danny Howker as Danny and Isabel Caswell as Jenny were exceptional. 

Calender Girls cast: Starring Fern Britton, Anna-Jane Casey, Sara Crowe, Karen Dunbar, Ruth Madoc, Rebecca Storm and Denise Welch

Fern Britton returned to the stage for the first time in 30 years as Marie and she was fantastic. Credit to Sara Crowe who played Ruth. Her scenes were extremely witty and she endeared herself to the audience with her squeaky tone. Ruth Madoc played Jessie and was super. Karen Dunbar as Cora was exceptional.

The UK specialist blood cancer charity Bloodwise receives money from the production of the musical. To date the real life characters behind the show have raised in excess of £5million for Bloodwise which is an incredible achievement.

The stage is littered with sunflowers which are an analogy of hope and optimism throughout the show. The colourful imposing display reinforces the positive and uplifting message behind the show. Directed by Matt Ryan and designed by Robert Jones, Calender Girls is a moving show with a positive message. Act quickly, mark the date in your own calender and book your tickets for the shows run at the Liverpool Empire today.

Inspiring, uplifting and an emotional celebration of the human spirit. Fantastic!

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