Tim Firth’s British Women Strip to Express Love & Hope

by Jennifer Charron

“Calendar Girls” tells the hilarious true story of the deep friendship among a group of Yorkshire women who band together to help out their local hospital. Adapted from the 2003 film and its acclaimed 2008 stage production in London, the play showcases a branch of the UK’s Women’s Institute (WI), where these modest village women begin to challenge authority.

The tight-knit group of six women vary widely in age, personality, and body type, but they learn to love and support each other. Each character is thoughtfully developed, each feels authentic.

Annie (Alicia von Kugelgen) and her husband John (Evan Mooney) are a heart-warming couple that everyone loves. We quickly learn that John has cancer. Determined to turn grief into action, the WI friends, led by Chris (formidable Jen Halsing), decide to create a bold calendar to raise funds for a settee at the hospital.

The calendar will feature each woman nude—an uproarious debate ensues. Struggling to break out of stifling British shame and self-consciousness, “Calendar Girls” makes a touching comic point—express yourself! One by one they slowly face their fears with humor and defiance.

Each actor defines her character—from von Kugulgen’s thoughtful, sweet Annie to Isa S. Chu’s fearful yet delightful and exuberant Ruth. Emme Clark’s Cora confronts her challenges and Virginia Poole’s Celia faces daunting attacks honestly.

Each actor imparts both wit and wisdom. Applause for Miranda Bumstead as an appealing floozie, for Jen Halsing as a bold and enchanting innovator, and for Sally Hogarty as a funny, flustered Chairwoman.

More kudos for touching portrayals BY Laila Weir, Michael Haven, Jo Lusk; and the guys, too, Manuel M. Camacho, James Paul Gregory, Simon Patton. And to Evan Mooney whose John lovingly evokes the vital, resurgent sunflowers in the dales.

Silly yet tastefully done, the photography takes place onstage, as suspense builds. In frenzied flashes of bulbs, key body parts are hidden by cakes, flowers, and jam jars. It’s not the nudity but the bravery that counts.

Firth delves into each woman’s journey. The play balances its more somber moments with sharp wit and comedic relief, keeping us engaged. When the notorious calendar goes mainstream, TV goes to battle with community spirit.

The final scenes both hilarious and uplifting. The audience’s cheers and applause reflect the courage and beauty of the women on stage, leaving a lasting impact.

A solid play with smart dialogue, well-drawn characters, and a charming story, the themes of grief, self-acceptance, and the power of community resonated with me. Despite all that, I found the second act rather slow-paced, a possible opening night feature.

The wonderful sense of community translates to strong feelings between the actors at Masquers Playhouse. The audience’s gut-busting laughs, cheers, and applause made the evening festive.

Clearly, the humor, courage, and beauty of the women onstage leaves a lasting impact. After the play, the audience hung around, laughing and chatting with the cast and crew, showcasing a sense of sharing—like the courageous women of Yorkshire.

“Calendar Girls” –by Tim Firth, adapted from the film, directed by Michael Sally, at Masquers Playhouse, Point Richmond, California. Info: masquers.org – to March 2, 2025.

Cast: Miranda Bumstead, Manuel M. Camacho, Isa S. Chu, Emme Clark, James Paul Gregory, Jen Halsing, Michael Haven, Sally Hogarty, Jo Lusk, Even Mooney, Simon Patton, Virgie Poole, Alicia von Kugelgen, and Laila Weir.

Banner photo: Alicia von Kugelgen, Isa S. Chu, Michael Haven, Jen Halsing, & Virgie Poole.