Take a rollicking ride through the Wild West as acclaimed musical Calamity Jane makes its hotly anticipated return to the city where it all started, playing at the Sydney Opera House in an exclusive season from 14 October – 16 November 2025.
Virginia Gay is Calamity Jane, the role which earned her the Sydney Theatre Award for Best Actress and enchanted audiences and critics alike with her “completely captivating” (Broadway World), “sensational” (Sunday Telegraph) and “astonishing” (Daily Review) turn as the iconic frontierswoman.
Truly ahead of her time, the real-life antics of daredevil Calamity Jane have become legendary, and her defiance of cultural limitations and gender expectations resonate more strongly than ever in today’s tumultuous climate.
This timeless stage musical is adapted from the beloved film starring Doris Day, immersing audiences in the Golden Garter Saloon for a raucous yet intimate production directed by Richard Carroll. Packed with spontaneity, joy and revelry, this witty show has sold out multiple seasons in Sydney, Melbourne and on tour.
Gayis thrilled to be breaking out her cowboy boots for the first time since 2019, saying “Performing as Calamity Jane has been one of my all-time favourite experiences on stage – the mischief and irreverence that we bring to the Wild West and the tenderness under all those buckskins make it a real treat for audiences too,” she said.
I know my heart is ready to don Calam’s leather chaps one more time at the Sydney Opera House: Calamity Jane – Back In The Saddle,” said Gay.
“Calamity Jane is one of those unforgettable shows that envelops audiences, making sure everyone walks away uplifted and thoroughly entertained. It’s a laugh-out-loud musical that delivers fun in its purest form, with Calamity brought to life by one of Australia’s most genuine talents. It’ll be a riot,” said Sydney Opera House Head of Contemporary Performance, Ebony Bott.
“Big, bold, brash and brassy, this exuberant re-imagining of the 1950’s cult film … hits the bull’s eye in every department.” – Australian Arts Review
Calamity Jane
Studio – Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney
Season: 14 October – 16 November 2025
Information and Bookings: www.sydneyoperahouse.com
Image: Virginia Jane stars as Calamity Jane – photo by Harvey House