Sister Act

What a privilege it was to be present at this final performance of Sister Act. For some on the stage it was also to be their final show with Northampton Musical Theatre Company Youth Society, including the leading lady, Hatti Taylor (Deloris Van Cartier). If you know the show you’ll know the particular song ‘Sister Act’, in which Deloris sings about having her sisters at her side, and that’s certainly what happened when the emotion started to overtake this wonderful young actor. Her sisters, and particularly Mother Superior (Eleanor Butt), supported her, took her hand and gave her a look that said, ‘You’ve got this’ or more so, ‘We’ve got this.’ It was a moment shared, amongst many in this fabulous production.

Hatti was very comfortable on the stage and brought us all the sass and also vulnerability of Deloris, her vocals were chrystal clear and powerful when needed. Hatti was very ably supported by a wonderful host of nuns; Sisters Mary Robert (Evie Felgate), Mary Patrick (Hope Frampton), Mary Lazarus (Louise White) all giving very strong performances, along with Emily, Isobel, Alice, Amber, Cydnee, Ellie, Elsie, Lauren, Lola, Martha, Meadow, Mia, Ruby & Shaquila. Individually they brought their own characters to the mix but together they brought the power of this fabulous group of sisters. One of the many highlights was when the hidden nuns made their appearance in the bedroom, particularly the nuns behind the black lamps, once seen it couldn’t be unseen, but it was a very clever moment making full use of the setting.

Sister Act isn’t all about the ladies though and what a confident, talented group of young men there were. Curtis played by Owen Fantarrow gave us an excellent baddie with a great singing voice who is supported by three bumbling gangsters, TJ, Joey & Pablo (Nathan Bishop, Harvey Warren & Jack Garton) who brought out all the comedy and dance moves. ‘Lady in the Long Black Dress’ is always a hit and the boys didn’t disappoint. Eddie Souther (Archie MacDonald) has had a crush on Doris (Deloris) since high school and it is he that puts the plan in place to hide her in the convent. He’s a very nervous cop who dreams of impressing Deloris with ‘I Could Be That Guy’. I was very impressed with Archie’s portrayal of Eddie as this can often become too much of a comedy role but Archie really made us care about Eddie too. This young man is definitely a triple threat with great stage presence and a gleam in his eye.

Mother Superior (Eleanor) & Monsignor O’Hara (Robson Scott) are delightful, like chalk and cheese, trying to keep order in the Church. Eleanor’s rendition of ‘I Haven’t Got A Prayer’ was excellent.

Great use was also made of the Choristers; Arya, Billie-Mae, Muhammad & Phoenix.

Generally this young company were fully focused on this wonderful production directed by Katy, which benefitted greatly from the vocal work done by Rob and the excellent choreography by Fiona & Melanie. Costumes were very fitting for the period from Sandi Allen & Lucy Napthine with a very effective set from Phil Cave. Miles Harrison balanced the sound well so that we heard every word sung and said.

This certainly was one terrific Sister Act.

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