Sister Act

Based on the much-loved 1992 hit film, Sister Act is the complete package of a modern upbeat musical comedy. From the minute the overture starts the energy level is high and Kilmarnock AOS kept this level bouncing throughout their production.

The first character we meet is the fabulous Deloris Van Cartier, who we follow throughout the show. With very little rest time off stage this is a very demanding role to perform, and it was wonderfully portrayed by Rachel Howat who gave a powerhouse performance. A true triple threat, Rachel’s characterisation was flawless throughout her acting, singing and dancing. She also brought out a lot of comedy in the character which kept the audience laughing and engaged.

The first few scenes with Deloris were enhanced with the comedy characterisation and backing vocals from Michelle (Pauline Ferguson) and Tina (Megan Cook).

As Deloris’ journey progresses, we encounter lots of wonderful characters and although some of the audience who are fans of the show and film know what’s coming, the first entrance of the nuns with their unique off-key singing was well received by the whole audience, was very amusing and well done. Continuing the comedy in the convent was Fiona Currie who captured a lovely balance between a stern and compassionate Mother Superior with conviction and gave a sound characterisation and vocal throughout. The light up purple trainers at the end were genius!! The other featured characters in the convent were the energetic and happy Sister Mary Patrick (Danielle Graham), sweet and gentle Sister Mary Robert (Cassidy Murray) and comedic rapping Sister Mary Lazarus (Colette Dunsmore).  All three worked well together and were supported fantastically by a talented ensemble of nuns including the goofy Sister Mary Martin of Tours (Ruth Currie) and the much older (in character only of course) Sister Mary Theresa (Theresa Kerr). 

Capturing Deloris’ nasty ex-lover Curtis, contrastingly with menacingly evil and comedy was Neil Warrander. Neil was supported fantastically by his ‘gang of goons’; the comical Joey (Allan Ward), charismatic Spaniard Pablo (Colin McDonald), and funny-man TJ (Neil Kerr). The solid performances from all four was lovely to see, especially in their numbers ‘When I Find My Baby’ and Lady in the Long Black Dress’.

Deloris’ saviour and hero of the show, police officer Eddie, was played excellently by Michael Gallagher.  Michael’s portrayal of this sweaty and geeky Police Officer was great to watch and his number ‘I Could Be That Guy’ had the audience cheering and laughing throughout. Dealing with the tricky costume changes with effortlessness during the song should be commended.

Another standout performance was Aaron Mooney as Monsignor O’Hara, who brought so much comedy into his portrayal that he was stealing scenes left right and centre and brought a whole new energy to the role than I have not seen before.

Supporting the central characters were a strong ensemble who gave strong vocal peformances showcasing power and beautiful harmonies, especially in ‘Sunday Morning Fever’. The music combined with clever choreography and a clever use of the simple staging meant that the whole show was very slick, which matched the energy of the cast well. I would also like to mention the lighting design as well, which was very arty and effective for creating the atmosphere of each scene.

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