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 As the show started I kind of knew what to expect from the storyline, I had seen the film and was looking forward to show and seeing women get naked. The show was very saucy, very rude and very funny, at times I could imagine what it would be like at a live seminar about ‘women power’ sponsored by the TV show loose women, aaagghh imagine it ha ha! Only joking, the ladies are very honest about themselves and realise their hang-ups and deal with it. They are proud in what they believe in and prove this by getting nude not naked for a good cause. Their idea to raise enough money by poising naked on a traditional WI (Women’s Institute) calendar is initially frowned upon by the WI but determined they are and the cause goes from strength to strength more than they ever could have imagined.
The show tells a true story about a WI (Women’s Institute) group in the Yorkshire dales who decide to raise money for a new settee to go in waiting room in the hospital where one of the women’s late husband John who had died of leukaemia. Realising they wouldn’t make enough money from their normal calendar they decide to do something different, they decide to pose nude using traditional props and scenes. Once they have all individually overcome the idea of posing naked for everyone to see, they successfully convince the hierarchy of the WI who allow them to go ahead, providing they call it an alternative WI calendar. The calendar is an instant success which brings in press from around the world. They receive letters of inspiration from people who have been in similar positions with leukaemia in the family, they beat their expectations and raise enough money for a new hospital wing in memory of John let alone enough for a settee.
I believe the story shows anything is possible, if you’re determined, not afraid and have the help of great friends you can achieve anything.
The cast included some terrific actresses which included Lynda Bellingham, Judith Barker, Jan Harvey, Letitia Dean and my personal favourite Gemma Atkinson.
The set was clever and the props were out in abundance.
In all the show achieved a great portrayal of the true story, if you’re a bit crude and don’t condone swearing then this show isn’t for you, I loved it and Gemma Atkinson.
Adam Merner (miltonkeynes.com)
Calender girls runs at the Milton Keynes Theatre Until Saturday 27th March To book tickets online Click Here
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