The
hit film, based on the true story by Tim Firth about a group
of WI ladies determined to raise money by producing an
‘alternative’ calendar was a huge international success and has undoubtedly
been one of the reasons for the continued ‘sold out’ signs across the nations’
theatres. That said, this stage production brings an added element to the
experience which the celluloid version misses; with this wonderful cast the
emotions are truly palpable, the laughs shared with everyone and the tears are
very real.
The
main drive of the story, Annie & Johns
final days together, was heartwarming and heartbreaking in equal measures –
wonderfully portrayed by Jan Harvey & Joe McGann. Playing
off against this was the rest of the WI and their playful ribbing of each other
while trying their best to sabotage Marie’s (Ruth Madoc)
attempts to impress Lady Cravenshire (Jane Lambert). The
passage of time, cleverly portrayed by using key social occasions through the
year gave more opportunities to watch the characters – my personal favourite
was Debbie Chazen as Ruth; her forays into costume comedy and
her ultimate dismissing of the make up artist were pure gold.
I
loved the intimacy & realism with which each character shared their own
response to the idea of being nude (not 'getting naked' !!). Vodka, cream buns,
marmalade & knitting needles all play a part in giving the ladies the
modesty (or courage) they needed. Then, coupled with wonderful comedy timing,
the process of actually getting their shots done was a riotous laugh fest which
had me literally gasping for breath and almost begging for them to stop.
The
second half of the show delved into the dangers & pitfalls of letting
celebrity take over from one’s initial scruples but it was done in such a way
that you were never left hating any particular character. Chris
(played by the delightful Lynda Bellingham) teetered on the
brink of abandoning all in the pursuit of her chance in the spot light,
especially when offered the opportunity of filming an advert, but it was the
announcement of the final total raised which gave her the ultimate sense of
achievement.
I must
admit that looking around the theatre it was probably an 80/20 split of ladies
to men – and I am not really sure why. The show is clearly not a’feminist’ story;
it’s about life, love and making a difference. Likewise, it’s not full of
female nudity which some men might fear would label their attendance as
slightly ‘pervy’ – it is a celebration of what can be done when you strip away
any inhibitions (please pardon the pun).
What
was evident was that all the gents were enjoying the show equally as much as
their lady companions. So if there are any guys reading this who are unsure, or
who have been bought tickets by their partners and are due to go and watch –
fear not – you are in for a complete treat and a fabulous story played out by a
true celebration of great British actresses.
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