STARS of stage and screen had their talents on display this week when Calendar Girls began its six day run at Venue Cymru.
Following the tale of the WI women who bared all in a calendar to raise funds to fight leukaemia, the stage adaptation of the popular British film failed to disappoint thanks to the phenomenal performances by its recognisable cast.
From Jean Boht’s feisty ex-teacher to Denise Black’s disreputable Vicar’s daughter, the experienced performers affirmed the quality of the show.
Rachel Lumberg as the sweet but naive Ruth kept audiences in hysterics even during the more reflective moments, and a sizzling performance by Jennifer Ellison - who no doubt appealed to all the men in the audience - added a vivacious touch to the proceedings.
But it was left to the dynamic between Elaine C Smith as the brash member of the group and Julia Hills as bereaved widow to act as the emotional lynchpins throughout the play.
Keeping the plot on track through ups and downs while still pulling enough comedic punches, their chemistry - and that of the entire cast - was apparent and contagious.
Audience members waving their hands in the air with delight during scenes of celebration and quietly sniffing throughout the more contemplative, emotional performances served to prove the entire, eclectic cast had the audience in the palm of their hands, and were taking everyone watching along for the ride.
The highlight of the show was undoubtadely the photography scene, where pictures for the suggestive calendar were taken.
Shunning modesty tape or flesh coloured tops, the fearless cast instead did the unexpected and actually posed as natural as their real life inspiration did.
A slip of the bun or a dropped knitting needle could have exposed more than intended, but amusing choreography and carefully placed props ensured a very tasteful and hilarious scene.
Calendar Girls is ultimately a feel-good tale about very normal women doing the extraordinary, and - like the film - the stage show did not let the spirit of the real story down.
Sensational performances, a side-splitting script despite a sombre issue, and a dollop of drama made the rapturous applause and lengthy standing ovation not only deserved, but an inevitability.
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Calendar Girls will be showing at Venue Cymru until August 14.
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