VISION Theatre Company’s spectacular performances of Calendar Girls the Musical at Milford Haven were hailed with joy and admiration. They also served as a wonderful tribute to a lady described as “our loudest cheerleader”.

Directed by Drew Baker, the performances, in the intimate surroundings of the Boulevard Theatre, Milford Haven consisted of stellar acting, beautiful music and singing, innovative use of the different stage areas, a sparkling script and a story to evoke lots of laughter and plenty of tears too.

The heart-warming musical is based on the Calendar Girls film, which in turn is based on a true story. It follows the struggles of a group of WI ladies who are persuaded that the best way to honour the memory of one of their members’ husbands is to pose nude for a calendar!

Musicals don’t always work so well - there is the potential to feel contrived, with actors suspending reality to break into song. But here the songs perfectly enhance the story; they function like the monologues in a Carla Lane drama, allowing the characters time to explore their own feelings. Particularly effective was Sarah Hancock’s rendition of Scarborough, perfectly phrased in a combination, where Annie contemplates life without John. With a skilful combination of singing, speaking and the space in between, the cast made the most of Tim Firth’s intelligent lyrics. Underpinning it all was an intuitive live piano accompaniment by Musical Director Clive Raymond.

This lovely, moving musical ran for three nights from September 4 to 7 and it was a special for the theatre company as they opened their fifth season. Calendar Girls had been the first musical they ever staged, so it felt like coming home. It was also dedicated to Drew’s inspirational mother, Lynda, who had passed away shortly before the performances. “She was with us at the very beginning, and though she can’t be here in person this time, her presence is in every note, every scene, every sunflower,” said Drew. “We don’t know how we’re going to cope without her. But like Annie in Calendar Girls, we take it one step at a time.”

Following an incredible opening night and the first of three standing ovations for the talented, professional and brave performers, Vision Arts enthused:

“Last night we officially kickstarted our fifth Anniversary celebrations with the musical that started it all. We are beyond proud of every single cast member who brought their heart and talent to the stage.

“Thank you to everyone who has supported us over the last five years – here’s to many, many more!

“We hope we did Lynda proud. We know she was looking down, watching the fabulous performance our cast and crew delivered.”

At the end of the shows, crocheted sunflowers were sold for donations to the local hospice-at-home charity, Paul Sartori.

“An incredible cast and crew poured their hearts into this show, and we’re beyond proud of what we created together,” posted Vision Arts after the final show.

Next up: Our Town by Thornton Wilder, October 2-4.