Film & Theatre, Reviews | Posted on May 23rd, 2025 | return to news
Calendar Girls
Wimborne Drama Productions, Tivoli Theatre, Wimborne
Review by Marilyn Barber | newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk
Six brave women step onto the stage, knowing that timing is everything in this story which hit the screens in 2003 as a film starring Helen Mirren.
The phrase “we are going to need considerably bigger buns” has almost become folklore.
Based upon a true story, ladies belonging to a WI in Yorkshire set about raising money for a local hospital in memory of the husband of one of their members who died of blood cancer. Inspired by a ‘girlie’ magazine in a local mechanics shop, they decide to raise funds by producing a nude calendar depicting traditional WI activities such as baking and knitting.
There is plenty of humour mixed with poignant and sad moments.
The six actresses have very different personas. Lesley James is feisty as Chris; Julie Sissons evokes compassion as the widow; Heather Birchenough combines school mistress determination with cheekiness as Jessie; Leah Jane adds much hilarity as Cora; Beth Morris oozes sexiness as Celia and Tracey Nicholls nails the character of the insecure member of the WI.
All six are superb.
And who couldn’t be moved by the performance of Richard Cawte in a wheelchair as John, as he enters the last days of his life.
Kelly Webb encapsulates the character of Marie, the chairperson of the WI, who wants members to stick to traditional WI aims.
These talented actors are supported by Colin Pile, James Turrall, David Beddard-Banks, Melody Utley, Debbie Southern and Cheryl Connor.
The changing seasons, necessary for the story, are depicted in a clever backcloth film.
Huge praise should go to director Sali Pike, the creative team and the actors for providing Tivoli audiences with such an excellent production.
You won’t want to miss this.
Try to get a ticket as it runs until Saturday. Book via https://www.tivoliwimborne.co.uk/events/calendar-girls-wimborne-drama-productions/
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