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Calamity Jane 2025 Tour Review: A Rootin’-Tootin’ Revival Where Carrie Hope Fletcher Shines
Tuesday, 25 February 2025
Calamity Jane (Tour)
New Victoria Theatre
The 2025 UK tour of Calamity Jane bursts onto the stage with energy, charm, and a dose of old-fashioned Wild West fun. Led by the ever-brilliant Carrie Hope Fletcher in the title role, this revival brings a fresh spark to the beloved musical while staying true to its classic appeal. With impressive orchestrations, great lighting design, and dynamic staging, the production proves that Calamity Jane is as entertaining as ever.
If there was ever a performer perfectly suited to bring Calamity Jane to life, it’s Carrie Hope Fletcher. Best known for her powerhouse performances in Les Misérables, Heathers, and The Addams Family, Fletcher steps into the buckskins of the iconic frontierswoman with charisma and confidence. Her portrayal balances tomboyish bravado with heartfelt vulnerability, making her Calamity both lovable and layered.
Vocally, Fletcher is sensational. She delivers showstoppers like 'The Deadwood Stage' and 'Secret Love' with clarity, warmth, and emotional depth. Her rendition of 'My Love Is Higher Than a Hawk' is a standout moment, showcasing her ability to blend rich storytelling with soaring vocals. She brings a modern sensibility to the role without losing the charm and humour that make Calamity such an endearing character.
The production’s lighting design is a major highlight, transporting the audience from the dusty streets of Deadwood to the glittering backstage in Chicago. Soft amber tones create a rustic, sun-drenched frontier feel, while dramatic spotlighting enhances the emotional weight of key scenes. During the climatic 'Secret Love', the transition from warm candlelight to a radiant glow beautifully mirrors Calamity’s personal transformation.
The staging is dynamic and well-paced, with director Nikolai Foster and Co-Director Nick Winston ensuring seamless transitions between the saloon, the theatre, and the open plains. The use of multi-level sets adds depth to the storytelling, and the clever choreography breathes life into the ensemble numbers. The bar fights and comedic misunderstandings play out with precision, bringing a sense of playfulness to the production without feeling over-the-top.
Under the musical direction of Catherine Jayes, the orchestrations remain faithful to the show’s roots while injecting a fresh vibrancy. The lush string and brass arrangements add richness to the score, making classics like 'Windy City' feel both nostalgic and exhilarating. The live band, positioned on stage at times, adds an immersive element, reinforcing the raw, unpolished energy of the Wild West setting.
The 2025 tour of Calamity Jane delivers a highly entertaining, well-executed revival of this beloved musical. Carrie Hope Fletcher leads the charge with a captivating performance, supported by stunning visuals, lively orchestrations, and seamless staging. Modern touches and attitudes mix perfectly with the classic story and show, ensuring a night of laughter, romance, and unforgettable music.
Whether you're a longtime fan of Calamity Jane or discovering it for the first time, this tour is well worth saddling up for. Get ready for a rootin’-tootin’ adventure full of heart, humour, and standout performances.
Reviewed on Tuesday 25th February 2025 by Olivia
Photo Credit: Mark Senior
{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}
Come with me to West End Press Launch for The Great Gatsby
Monday, 24 February 2025
Press launches are always a treat but this one had an extra air of excitement surrounding it as I, alongside a host of stagey people, stepped into the opulent Savoy Hotel for the press launch of the West End's latest sensation, The Great Gatsby musical.
A vintage Rolls Royce parked outside plus the grandeur of the iconic venue, with its art deco interiors, perfectly mirrored the Roaring Twenties ambiance that the production promises to deliver and certainly set the tone for what we can expect from this hotly anticipated Broadway transfer.
The show itself is hugely exciting, but the cast are a whole separate spectacle. Leading the ensemble is the charismatic Jamie Muscato, renowned for his roles in Moulin Rouge!, Heathers and Les Misérables. We got to hear him perform the beautiful, For Her, and I can already see how well he's going to bring the enigmatic, illusive Jay Gatsby to stage. Opposite him, the supremely talented Frances Mayli McCann, celebrated for her performances in Bonnie & Clyde and my personal favourite, Our Ladies of Perpetural Succour, portrays the captivating Daisy Buchanan. Their on-stage chemistry promises to reignite the timeless romance at the heart of F. Scott Fitzgerald's classic.
Adding to the stellar lineup is Corbin Bleu, making his West End debut as the introspective Nick Carraway. Amber Davies steps into the shoes of the vivacious Jordan Baker, while John Owen-Jones takes on the role of the shrewd Meyer Wolfsheim. Jon Robyns and Rachel Tucker round out the principal cast as Tom Buchanan and Myrtle Wilson, respectively. Clad in their finery, this cast are already killing it and I cannot wait to see how they bring their roles and the show to life.
During the launch, we were treated to another exclusive performance by Muscato and McCann, who delivered a mesmerizing rendition of My Green Light, a poignant number that encapsulates Gatsby's yearning and Daisy's allure. The song's haunting melody and evocative lyrics offered a tantalising preview of the musical's rich score.
The creative team behind this adaptation boasts impressive credentials. Director Marc Bruni, known for his work on Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, collaborates with choreographer Dominique Kelley to bring the Jazz Age to life through dynamic staging and dance sequences. The musical features a book by Kait Kerrigan and an original score by Tony Award nominees Jason Howland and Nathan Tysen, blending jazz influences with contemporary musical theater elements to create a soundscape that resonates with modern audiences.
Set to open at the London Coliseum on 11th April, 2025, The Great Gatsby musical invites audiences to immerse themselves in the opulence and decadence of the 1920s. The production promises lavish sets and costumes, transporting theatergoers to Gatsby's extravagant parties and the glamour of West Egg.
Beyond the visual spectacle, the musical delves deep into themes of love, ambition, and the pursuit of the American Dream. Audiences can expect a narrative that honors Fitzgerald's original work while offering fresh interpretations and insights into the characters' psyches.
As the evening at the Savoy concluded and the last of the Laurent Perrier champagne was drunk, it was evident that The Great Gatsby musical is poised to be a landmark event in the West End calendar. With a compelling cast, visionary creative team, and a story that has captivated readers for a century, this production offers a theatrical experience not to be missed.
Tickets are now on sale, and given the buzz surrounding the show, securing seats early is highly recommended. Prepare to be transported back in time and witness a tale of passion, decadence, and the relentless pursuit of dreams.
The Favourites by Layne Fargo: A Riveting, High-Stakes Tale of Passion and Ambition | Book Review
Friday, 21 February 2025
The Favourites by Layne Fargo
Published: January 2025 by Vintage
If you, like me, obsessively watch this video of Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir's Moulin Rouge routine, then this book is for you.
If I had to describe it in one word, it would be: ICONIC. Layne Fargo’s The Favourites is a masterfully crafted novel that takes readers deep into the thrilling and cutthroat world of elite figure skating and it is utterly fantastic. With its gripping narrative, complex characters, and intense emotional depth, this book is an absolute must-read for fans of psychological drama, competitive sports fiction, and stories that explore the darker side of ambition; plus there's a side of yearning, angsty romance that's just epic. Fargo delivers a stunning portrayal of the sacrifices, betrayals, and desires that drive athletes to greatness- no matter the cost.
At the heart of The Favourites is the electrifying partnership between Katarina Shaw and Heath Rocha, two elite ice dancers whose chemistry on the ice is matched only by the tumultuous intensity of their relationship off it. From the very first page, Fargo immerses readers in their world- a world where perfection is demanded, competition is ruthless, and every victory comes with a price. Their dynamic is equal parts passion, obsession, and rivalry, making for a story that is impossible to put down.
One of the standout aspects of The Favourites is its unique narrative structure. Fargo seamlessly blends first-person storytelling with documentary-style interviews, giving the novel a fresh and immersive feel. This technique not only adds depth to the characters but also builds suspense, leaving readers eager to uncover the truth behind the story’s central mysteries. Much like Daisy Jones & The Six, this approach makes the book feel vivid and real, as if you’re witnessing an actual behind-the-scenes exposé of figure skating’s most controversial duo. Even after finishing the book, I can't believe these characters aren't real, everything is so consuming, I continually found myself wanting to search for them and compulsively watch their routines- I'm still sad I can't!
The novel also excels in its exploration of the psychological toll that comes with striving for excellence. Fargo doesn’t shy away from the darker elements of competition- rivalries that turn toxic, the pressure to maintain public personas, and the blurred lines between love and control. The emotional stakes are as high as the physical ones, making every triumph and setback feel deeply personal. Readers who love character-driven stories with high tension and psychological complexity- think Black Swan meets I, Tonya- will find The Favourites utterly enthralling.
Beyond the characters and storytelling, Fargo’s attention to detail in portraying the world of competitive figure skating is impeccable. From the grueling training sessions to the politics of the sport, every element feels meticulously researched and authentically depicted. Even readers who aren’t familiar with ice dancing will find themselves swept up in the drama, thanks to Fargo’s ability to make the stakes feel both urgent and visceral.
In The Favourites, Layne Fargo has created a novel that is as dazzling as it is haunting. It’s a story of ambition, love, betrayal, and the sacrifices required to be the best. With its compelling characters, unique storytelling format, and razor-sharp tension, this book is a standout in contemporary fiction. Whether you’re a fan of sports dramas, psychological thrillers, or emotionally charged character studies, The Favourites is a novel you won’t want to miss!
2025 Theatre: West End and Broadway Shows Opening This Year
Friday, 24 January 2025
2025 is set to be another brilliant one for theatre fans, with both Broadway and the West End set to welcome a host of exciting new productions. From fresh adaptations of beloved classics to innovative original works, the stages are primed to dazzle audiences worldwide.
Here's a list of seven shows we're excited to see open in 2025:
1. The Great Gatsby- West End Premiere
F. Scott Fitzgerald's timeless novel, The Great Gatsby, is set to dazzle the West End in a new musical adaptation. Following a successful Broadway run, this production will grace London's London Coliseum from 11th April. Audiences can expect a lavish portrayal of the Roaring Twenties, complete with opulent sets, period costumes, and a jazz-infused score that brings the enigmatic Jay Gatsby and his world to life. This adaptation promises to capture the essence of the classic tale, exploring themes of love, ambition, and the American Dream.
2. Hercules- Disney's Mythical Musical
After a long wait, Disney's animated favorite, Hercules, is making its way to the West End stage in a grand musical way. Set to open at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane on 6th June, this production reimagines the legendary tale of the demigod Hercules on his quest for heroism. Directed and choreographed by Casey Nicholaw, with music by Alan Menken and lyrics by David Zippel, the show promises a blend of humour, heart, and high-energy numbers. Audiences can look forward to beloved songs from the original film, such as Go the Distance, alongside new compositions crafted for the stage.
3. Dirty Dancing- A Classic Reimagined
For film fans, the iconic love story of Dirty Dancing returns to the stage, offering fans a fresh take on the beloved 1987 film. Opening on 23rd October, 2025, at the newly established Capital Theatre in Westfield London, this production invites audiences to relive the romance of Baby and Johnny, whilst experiencing a new theatre too. With its memorable dance sequences and a soundtrack featuring hits like (I've Had) The Time of My Life, the show captures the essence of the original while introducing innovative choreography and staging. The Capital Theatre, a state-of-the-art venue, promises an intimate experience, ensuring every seat offers a prime view of the performance.
4. The Picture of Dorian Gray- Broadway's Bold Adaptation
After a hugely successful West End run, Oscar Wilde's classic novel, The Picture of Dorian Gray, receives a contemporary twist in this bold Broadway adaptation. Previews begin on March 10th, 2025, at the Music Box Theatre, with an official opening on 27th March. Starring Sarah Snook, renowned for her role in Succession, the production features her in an impressive 26 roles, showcasing her versatility and depth as a performer. Directed by Kip Williams, the play delves into themes of vanity, morality, and the consequences of eternal youth, offering a poignant reflection on society's obsession with appearance.
5. Buena Vista Social Club- A Musical Journey to Cuba
Transporting audiences to the vibrant streets of Havana, Buena Vista Social Club is a new musical inspired by the Grammy Award-winning album of the same name. Set to begin previews on 21st February, 2025, at the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre, with an official opening on March 19th, the production celebrates the rich musical heritage of Cuba. Produced by John Leguizamo, the show features a live Afro-Cuban band and a cast that brings to life the stories of the legendary musicians who made the album a global sensation. Audiences can expect a rhythmic journey filled with soulful melodies, vibrant dance, and a narrative that honours the resilience and passion of Cuban artists.
6. Operation Mincemeat- The Little Show That Could
Making its Broadway debut after a successful run in London's West End, Operation Mincemeat is a musical comedy that brings to light one of World War II's most audacious deceptions. Previews commence on 15th February, 2025, at the Golden Theatre, with an opening night on 20th March. The story follows a daring British intelligence operation that aimed to deceive the opposition, turning the tide of the war. With a blend of sharp wit, engaging music, and historical intrigue, the production offers a fresh perspective on a remarkable true story, making it a must-see for history buffs and theatre lovers alike.
7. Stereophonic- A Rock 'n' Roll Stage Experience
After garnering critical acclaim and multiple Tony Awards on Broadway, Stereophonic is set to electrify London's West End in May 2025 at the Duke of York’s Theatre. Written by David Adjmi, the play immerses audiences in the dynamic world of a 1970s rock band as they navigate the tumultuous process of recording their second album. Featuring original music by Will Butler of Arcade Fire, the production delves into themes of ambition, creativity, and the personal struggles that come with fame. The show's innovative staging and compelling narrative promise an unforgettable theatrical experience that resonates with music enthusiasts and theatre-goers alike.
This is just a small taste of what's on offer this year, and there's so much more across the UK and USA. Whether you're a fan of dramatic storytelling, musical extravaganzas, or historical tales brought to life, the stages of Broadway, the West End and beyond are set to offer something truly special this year. And of course, we'll be covering as much as we can on Rewrite This Story.
Stay Stagey!
Galloping Through the Heart: War Horse Stirs the Soul
Wednesday, 15 January 2025
War Horse (Tour)
New Victoria Theatre
War Horse returns to the stage with all the emotional resonance and technical mastery that have solidified its place as an iconic theatrical experience. Directed by Tom Morris, with revival direction by Katie Henry, this production feels especially poignant in today’s world, where themes of resilience, connection, and hope resonate more profoundly than ever.
The centrepiece of this production is the breathtaking puppetry, crafted by the visionary Handspring Puppet Company. Joey and Topthorn are engineering marvels, made from lightweight materials that allow for lifelike movements while retaining a skeletal elegance. Each flick of an ear, swish of a tail, and laboured breath is brought to life by the outstanding puppeteers. Matthew Lawrence (Joey- Head), Rafe Young (Heart), and Felicity Donnelly (Hind) infuse Joey with a remarkable blend of power and vulnerability, while Rianna Ash (Head), Chris Milford (Heart), and Thomas Goodridge (Hind) give Topthorn a commanding presence that is as awe-inspiring as it is poignant. It's quite amazing how quickly you fall in love with these animals, and just shows how effective the puppetry is.
The lighting design (Rob Casey), masterfully executed, plays a crucial role in elevating the production’s emotional intensity. Harsh, angular beams during battle sequences evoke the chaos of war, while softer, golden hues in pastoral scenes create a sense of peace and nostalgia. The transitions are seamless, guiding the audience’s emotions as effectively as the narrative itself.
The atmospheric sound design and Adrian Sutton’s stirring score further immerse the audience, evoking the thundering hooves of cavalry charges and the haunting quiet of the battlefield. The interplay of sound and visuals heightens the emotional impact, ensuring each scene lands with maximum resonance. While there are moments where the graphics feel a little basic, they do fit with the general vibe and can't really detract from such a wonderful production.
Joey’s foalhood is depicted with exquisite charm by Eloise Beaumont-Wood (Head), Diany Samba-Bandza (Heart), and Jordan Paris (Hind), whose synchronised movements perfectly capture the playful innocence of a young horse.
Another heart of this emotionally charged production is Tom Sturgess as Albert Narracott, whose heartfelt performance anchors the story with warmth and authenticity. Sturgess masterfully captures Albert’s unyielding determination and deep bond with Joey, imbuing the character with a raw vulnerability that resonates throughout the play. Whether he’s expressing tender affection for his beloved horse or grappling with the horrors of war, Sturgess commands the stage with a magnetic presence that keeps the audience firmly invested in Albert’s journey. His portrayal adds an essential human dimension to the sweeping narrative, making the connection between man and horse all the more poignant.
This production transcends traditional storytelling, blending artistry and innovation into a truly immersive experience. As one character wisely observes, “Where there’s life, there’s hope.” In a world fraught with uncertainty, War Horse is a timely reminder of our shared humanity, perseverance, and capacity for love.
From the remarkable puppetry to the evocative lighting and sound, War Horse is a technical and emotional triumph that gallops straight into your heart. This is theatre at its finest- unmissable and unforgettable.
★★★★★
Reviewed on Tuesday 14th January 2025 by Olivia
Photo Credit: Brinkhoff-Moegenburg
{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}
Januaries by Olivie Blake: A Fantastical Feast of Short Stories | Book Review
Friday, 13 December 2024
Januaries by Olivie Blake
Published: October 2024 by TOR
In the realm of contemporary short stories, few works have captivated me as much as Olivie Blake's Januaries. This exceptional collection of stories transcends the conventional boundaries of the genre, offering readers an immersive experience that lingers long after the final page is turned.
Blake's writing style is so unique and wonderful. Her prose is both lyrical and precise, weaving intricate tapestries of emotion and imagery that draw readers into each narrative. The worlds she constructs are richly detailed, brimming with life and authenticity. Whether set in fantastical realms or grounded in reality, each story's setting is meticulously crafted, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the diverse landscapes she presents.
One of my favourite elements of Januaries is Blake's ability to introduce elements that initially appear random or disparate, only to seamlessly intertwine them in ways that are both surprising and profoundly impactful. This narrative technique keeps readers engaged, as they eagerly anticipate how each thread will converge. The culmination of these elements often leads to revelations that are both satisfying and thought-provoking, showcasing Blake's masterful command of storytelling.
In my experience, short story collections can be a mixed bag, with some narratives resonating more than others. However for me, Januaries defies this trend. Each story stands as a testament to Blake's versatility and creativity, offering unique perspectives and themes that resonate deeply. The consistency in quality is a testament to her prowess as a writer, ensuring that readers are equally invested in every tale.
Beyond the technical greatness, Januaries delves into universal themes that resonate on a personal level. Blake explores the complexities of human nature, the intricacies of relationships, and the profound impact of choices. Her characters are multifaceted and relatable, their journeys reflecting the myriad experiences that define the human condition. This exploration adds depth to the collection, inviting readers to reflect on their own lives and experiences.
Januaries by Olivie Blake is a literary triumph that exemplifies the art of short story writing. With her exquisite prose, masterful world-building, and the seamless way she pushes a message, Blake has crafted a collection that is both engaging and impactful. Each story offers a unique journey, yet collectively they form a cohesive tapestry that celebrates the richness of storytelling. For readers seeking a profound and immersive literary experience, Januaries is an absolute must-read.
Reviewed by Olivia
{AD PR product- book gifted by publisher}
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