Act Reviews 2024 / 2025 Season

ageing disgracefully!” Lindsey Brough’s Celia was a breath of fresh air - effortlessly glamorous with a cheeky sense of humour, she had the audience captivated, bringing the perfect mix of vanity and vulnerability to her role. Celia’s involvement in the calendar project becomes a way for her to connect more deeply with the other women, breaking down the barriers that initially separated her from them. Her willingness to bare it all, both physically and emotionally, shows her growth and reveals a woman who is much more than her stylish appearance. By the end of the play, Celia becomes an integral part of the group, with her humour, boldness, and newfound vulnerability shining through. Lindsey made us laugh throughout, and her competitiveness for most glamorous woman in Yorkshire, vying with Gilly’s Chris, was a real highlight. Angela McIntyre’s Ruth was both heartbreaking and hilarious as the timid woman whose emotional journey was one of the most moving aspects of the show. Ruth’s transformation is one of the most touching aspects of the play. By the end, she is no longer the timid, unsure woman she was at the beginning. Instead, Ruth emerges as someone who has gained self-respect, realising that she is stronger and more resilient than she ever believed. Her friendship with the other women in the group, particularly the support and solidarity they offer, plays a crucial role in her journey toward self-empowerment. Angela’s portrayal of Ruth beautifully captured this emotional arc. Her performance brought out Ruth’s initial vulnerability and uncertainty, while also highlighting her inner strength and growth. Angela’s performance was layered and authentic, making Ruth’s transformation all the more rewarding to watch. The supporting cast was equally fantastic. Claire Bentley’s Marie was played with just the right amount of uptight authority, offering a perfect foil to the wild spirit of the Calendar Girls. Marie represents the more conservative, rule-following side of the WI, and she is initially horrified by the idea of a nude calendar. Her character is rigid and a bit stuffy,

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