I never expected to cry at ‘Calendar Girls the Musical’, but 20 minutes in and I had tears rolling down my cheeks. Such was the emotional poignancy of the story that prompts the Women’s Institute (WI) to make a nude calendar to raise funds.
You may have seen the 2003 hit film, but this stage show by Gary Barlow and Tim Firth, and directed by Emily Raymond, is a complete step above when it comes to pulling on the heart strings.
The story is: Annie’s husband John gets sick and dies of cancer. Her fellow members of the North Yorkshire WI try best to support her, but her grief is raw. In a bid to do something positive in John’s memory, Annie comes up with the idea of raising funds for a settee for relatives at the hospital: a nude WI calendar in typically WI poses (think plum jam and buns!). It receives mixed reactions as the lady’s experience anxiety at the thought of baring themselves. Plus, they have to get permission from the powers-that-be at the WI National Conference.
Based on a true story, this is a powerfully uplifting play that highlights the bonds of female friendship, and how much can be achieved when we focus on a cause bigger than ourselves.
I don’t recall feeling so moved when I watched the film, although it was many years ago, but this production really digs into the nuances of human relationships and reveals a depth of emotion that cannot fail to touch any audience member.
For most of the performance, I forgot I was watching a performance, such was the immersion and credibility in the talented team of actors. Both Annie (Claire Carrie) and Celia (Joanne Heywood) were so lifelike, I almost had to pinch myself this was not real life.
The songs are not shoehorned in (as you may wonder) and add a structure and musicality that was not present in the movie. To be able to use song to move a story on and add such intensity and vivacity to the scene is a real skill, and Musical Director Neil Somerville has clearly used his passion and expertise to pull this off successfully.
There are plenty of comic laugh-out-loud moments, and while the backbone to this play may seem heavy, there is a rich vein of amusement running throughout.
‘Calendar Girls The Musical’ is a joy to watch. It may be sad, and it may make you cry, but it will also make you smile. Most importantly, it will remind you of your relationships and to not take things for granted. It is a celebration of bravery, love and of stepping out and doing something different and not being afraid. An inspirational, emotional, lovely play – no wonder it’s a sell out!
Calendar Girls The Musical runs until 26th July at the McGrigor Hall which is sold out, returns maybe available at https://fst-odes.co.uk/products/
Reviewer: Samantha Collett
Reviewed: 22nd July 2025
North West End UK Rating: