HOPS Musical Theatre Company throws weight behind Harrogate support group for younger men with prostate cancer
At first glance, the rugged world of Deadwood, the home of Wild West’s Calamity Jane, may seem far removed from modern conversations about health. Yet beneath the surface, there is a connection.
The poker tables and saloons of the Old West, where figures like Wild Bill Hickok traded stories as readily as cards, were places of straight talking.
Today, that same principle feels more relevant than ever. While progress has been made, many men still struggle to open up about their health, their fears, and the impact of a diagnosis like prostate cancer.
HOPS Musical Theatre Company has teamed up with Harrogate support group the Dodgy Walnut to emphasise the importance of conversation around difficult topics.
“The message behind both the show and the partnership is simple: play the hand you are dealt and say what matters,” said the company’s chairman Richard Lill.
“There are many myths surrounding health, particularly men’s health. Among them is the enduring belief that prostate cancer is an “older man’s disease”.
"While it is more prevalent in later life, the reality is far more complex. Prostate cancer does affect younger men, men in the middle of careers, relationships, and family life, often at a stage when illness feels least expected,” he said.
“It is this reality that led to the creation of the Dodgy Walnut, a peer support group based in Harrogate, offering a vital space for men navigating prostate cancer at a younger age.
" While not exclusive to any one age group, it is tailored towards those who are still working or have not yet reached state pension age. For these men, the challenges can be very different.
“They may be building or supporting a young family, managing finances, or coming to terms with a life that suddenly feels uncertain despite being in their prime. The Dodgy Walnut provides a platform where those experiences can be shared openly, honestly, and without judgment.
“That spirit of openness is at the heart of a unique partnership taking shape this June at Harrogate Theatre, as HOPS Musical Theatre Company presents the much-loved musical Calamity Jane.”
For HOPS, this production is about more than putting on a great show, though audienceas re promised expect an evening of lively music, humour, and escapism.
“It is also about giving something back,” said Richard.
“Many past and present members of the company have been affected, directly or indirectly, by prostate cancer. They understand that while the disease is often survivable, it brings life-changing adjustments and a new normal that can be difficult to navigate alone.
“That is why HOPS is proud to support the Dodgy Walnut and help raise awareness of its work,” he said.
The group is connected with leading organisations including Tackle Prostate Cancer, Prostate Cancer UK, Macmillan Cancer Support, and Info Pool. Together, they ensure that men and their families can access a wide range of trusted support, whatever path their diagnosis may take.
Harrogate Theatre, where Calamity Jane will be staged next month, has created a welcoming and inclusive environment for all visitors. With up-to-date facilities, including discreet men’s hygiene disposal bins, visitors can attend without fear of embarrassment or discomfort.
As part of this partnership, HOPS has donated a number of complimentary tickets for the opening night on Tuesday June.
These are ffered through the Dodgy Walnut to men currently facing prostate cancer.
“It is a small gesture but one rooted in a powerful idea that moments of escape, connection and shared experience can make a real difference,” said Richard.
“Because theatre, at its best, does more than entertain. It brings people together. It creates space to laugh, to reflect, and sometimes to begin conversations that might otherwise never happen.”
"So whether you come for the music, the storytelling, or simply a night out, Calamity Jane at Harrogate Theatre offers something more.
" It is a reminder that while life does not always deal an easy hand, we do not have to play it alone.”
The musical is the story of Calamity Jane and Wild Bill Hickok and features The Deadwood Stage, Black Hills of Dakota, A Woman’s Touch, It’s Harry I’m Planning to Marry and the Oscar-winning Secret Love.
It runs from Harrogate Theatre from Tuesday June 9 to Saturday June 13. It is on from Tuesday to Friday at 7.30pm and on Saturday at 2pm and 7pm.
To learn more about the Dodgy Walnut or to get involved, contact [email protected] and at: www.thrdodgywalnut.com