The Bristol Hippodrome came alive with laughter, music, and plenty of heart in this vibrant revival of Calamity Jane. Carrie Hope Fletcher gave a beautiful performance as the gun-slinging heroine, blending playful humour with genuine warmth and a powerful voice. Her rendition of “Secret Love” was a standout moment — tender, heartfelt, and met with rapturous applause.
She was matched perfectly by Vinny Coyle as Wild Bill Hickok, whose rich, beautiful voice adds depth to every duet. The chemistry between Fletcher and Coyle is undeniable, making their scenes together both touching and entertaining. Their pairing makes the show, bringing real spark to the classic story.
The rest of the cast shine too, with strong voices across the board and a clever actor-musician setup that keeps the energy levels high.
From rollicking hoedowns to comical interludes, the company maintain a lively pace that never lets the audience drift. It’s no surprise that the crowd were completely engaged from start to finish — laughing, clapping along, and giving the cast a well-deserved ovation.
While the production stays faithful to the nostalgic charm of the 1950s original rather than reinventing it, the combination of strong vocals, spirited choreography, and winning performances makes it a thoroughly enjoyable night out. Uplifting, funny, and packed with memorable tunes, Calamity Jane at the Hippodrome leaves you smiling all the way home.