Sister Act

SISTER ACT is a musical based on the 1992 film of the same name with Whoopi Goldberg in the role of Deloris Van Cartier. The musical is a story of the clash of cultures when Deloris, a lounge club singer, is forced into hiding from the mob, after she witnesses a murder.  A convent is thought to be the least likely place she would take refuge.

The main backdrop (a large, of stained-glass arches) was most impressive and of the highest quality.  There was a variety of scenes inside the Convent (refectory, dormitory, Mother Superior’s office and Confessional) and on the outside, the night club, police station and the street.  Some sets were made up using basic properties enabling quick changes to keep the action moving and the props, when necessary, were well used by the cast.  There was good attention to detail including a walking stick that lit up which was in keeping with the upbeat nature of one of the songs.   

The costumes were brilliant, smart, in keeping with the characters and displayed great attention to detail. Doloris’s ‘fur’ coat, the nuns' habits with ever changing front pieces, pyjamas, Monsignor’s vestments, costumes for night club patrons and people in the street, and even the Pope’s vestments were all authentic.    Eddie’s on-stage change from police to ‘Vegas Elvis’ white jump suit and back to police uniform was magnificent and well executed.  Most of the cast’s hair was hidden under their nuns’ headdresses but the 70s wigs for Joey, TJ and Pablo were just right.   

An excellent use of lighting beautifully brought the stained-glass arches to life during scenes inside the chapel, while effective use of multi-coloured lighting and a glitter ball created the lively nightclub atmosphere.   The cast sounded terrific.     Sally Manning as Mother Superior was outstanding. She was grounded, note perfect and sang with self-possessed authority.   Kirsty Kingham had irresistible energy bringing great gusto to the role, (if perhaps just a little over-amplified in the opening number) In complete contrast, Rhianon Mone’s solo ‘The Life I never Led’ was beautifully sung with innocence and dignity.   

This feelgood show was a triumph from start to finish.    It was energetic, hilarious and joyful.    The show was filled with great moments and the cast shone.    The direction and choreography by Louise Travis were excellent, creative and filled with humour; the cast being in synch with the music and each other.     The laughter was particularly evident when Joey, TJ and Pablo sang and engaged with the audience; particularly one lady!  Luannsa Goodman was cheeky and charming as the exuberant Sister Mary Patrick.  Doloris’s journey takes her from selfishness to responsibility and sisterhood and Kirsty Kingham took the audience with her.   

This was a well-crafted show with huge talent both on and off the stage.  There was a great deal of comedy and a theme of genuine affection and friendship.    All in all, a fantastic evening that enabled the audience to leave the theatre with beaming smiles.

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