Tim Firth’s hilarious play is based on the true story of eleven W.I. members who famously posed nude for a calendar to raise money for the Leukaemia Research Fund in 1999.
When Annie's husband, John dies of leukaemia, she and her long-standing best friend, Chris, resolve to raise money for a new settee in the local hospital waiting room. With varying levels of encouragement, they persuade fellow members of the Women’s Institute (W.I.) to pose nude with them for an "alternative" calendar. This is much to the horror of their local W.I. chairman, Marie. The success of the calendar goes beyond their wildest dreams and they soon raise the money needed and much more.
However, With success comes challenges, with Chris and Annie’s friendship being tested under the strain of their new-found fame.
The play follows the experiences of six of the calendar girls, exploring their different motivations for participating, often with hilarious exchanges but also some very sobering realities of life.
Contains partial nudity. Parental guidance is recommended.
By arrangement with Play Bureau NZ on behalf of Samuel French London.
Directed by Susanne Dell.
Access: Off Broadway Theatre offers easy access from street level, with all seats having a good view of the stage via tiered seating from Row B upwards.
Licensed Bar: Opens approx. 30 minutes prior to the start of the performance.