Sister Act

What a feel good factor show this was. The music and singing resonated with energy and the cast gave it their all. The story of would be cabaret singer Deloris Van Cartier witnessing her backer Curtis shooting a man, then having to go into hiding in a convent set off a train of events. Robyn Gordon developed a likeable and gregarious Deloris who, frightened Curtis would kill her because she had seen him murder, entered the convent for safety. In fine voice in numbers like Take Me To Heaven and the signature tune Sister Act she took firm hold. She gave Deloris an edge too as she revealed the nickname of the policeman who looked after her safety. She bounced against the Mother Superior with her contempt for rules but she was instrumental in saving the convent with her singing nuns. Chris Cairns definitely gave his role a mean and vengeful streak exemplified in When I Find My Baby. His side kicks, a comedic trio, lightened this with their antics – especially an agile Allan Farrell as TJ with his innocent yet dumb comments and with Jenni Campbell as Joey and Donna Meiklejohn as Pablo stepping out in style in Lady In The Long Black Dress. The cop Eddy Souther was well played by Joseph Young showing his love for Deloris through his protection of her. His song I Could be That Guy was heartfelt and moving. Meanwhile Alex Wright as Mother Superior created a devout, authoritative and determined character. Her singing such as Within These Walls and I Haven’t Got A Prayer was beautiful, clear and true. Meanwhile the nuns were a hoot -not least with their off key singing. Amy McDermott was a wonderful Sister Mary Lazarus with her gruff speaking voice and her timing and ear for comedy. Caressa Janssen made the most of her role as the novice and obedient Sister Mary Roberts. Her song The Life I Never Had was well delivered. The other Sisters, Mary Patrick, Mary Theresa, Mary Martin of Tours and Mary Clarence all entered their roles with fervour as did the none too religious priest, Monsignor O’Hara, a lovely cameo role delivered in classy shades by George Marcinliewicz. Lesley Kettles and Caitlin Smith were in great harmony near the beginning and singing overall was clear and well paced. Memorable moments included the funny escape pub and confessional scenes and the slow motion scene with the nuns attacking Curtis -especially Sister Mary Lazarus with her stick. The set was minimalist yet effective with a church window as background and scenes created by props. This meant a busy time for stage crew but scene changes were well managed, merging one to the other unobtrusively. The whole cast worked and moved well together and, in ending with a rousing Spread The Love and Raise your Voice, ensured we all had a highly enjoyable and entertaining evening.

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