NUNSENSE - the mega musical

Report

Author: Nova Horley

As the title suggests, this production was full of Nuns and nonsense, supported by good music beautifully sung.

I liked the set, which although minimal was colourful, which meant the inevitable black Nun’s habits stood out, and gave the impression of it being a lively and colourful production.  The addition of the front of house people being suitably attired as priests etc, added to the overall effect.

It was difficult on a small stage to get too much choreography going, but everything was executed well, I particularly liked the tap routine. 

Lighting was good, always difficult in a small hall, but the knowledgeable technical people managed to get some good, sometimes quirky effects.  I thought the sound was a little suspect at first, something else that is difficult to gauge until the Hall is full when no-one is personally mic’d, but everyone projected more after the initial scene.

Musically, Joanna Smale had got the best out of the cast, expressive singing and beautiful harmonies, as to be expected from the experienced ladies on stage.

We had a laugh with the likes of Angela Goss (Reverend Mother), Barbara Morton (Sister Hubert), Lucy O’Hare (Sister Amnesia), Rachel Maloy (Sister Leo) and Susan Young (Sister Robert), they delivered corny jokes and audience participation with aplomb.  I especially liked the clarity of Sister Leo’s singing voice and her ballet numbers were very good, particularly the dying swan!  Sister Robert’s song was excellent, with lovely choir backing, and Sister Amnesia created a full-on character, so good.

The remaining cast members – Julia Foster, Nicola Williamson, Veronica Yates, Cathy Maile, Fiona Whiteside, Gail Muscella, Denise Ryan, Christine Rayment, Helen Rudderham and Pauline Knowles – all added volume and interest with their different characters and fine vocals.

Probably not in the top echelon of musicals, but a lovely fun way to get started again, and to encourage the audience to look forward to DMTC’s next productions, which promise to be varied.  The great finale sent us away on a high!

My thanks to DMTC for their hospitality, it was good to catch up with so many people we haven’t seen for at least 18 months if not longer!