Sister Act

Sister Act is a joyous show with plenty of comedy, and the chance for the cast to enjoy the lovely music.  A difficult show to stage, particularly at the Spotlight.  I was present on the first night, so put some anomalies that were at odds with the rest of the show as first night nerves from the performers, and sound issues down to unfamiliar tech! 

Mostly the lighting was good, but there were parts (particularly when Deloris was singing) when a little brighter lighting plot would have enhanced the scene.  There were a few (to my mind) unnecessary blackouts, but appreciate the fact that because of the stage and the large scenery it was a little difficult to run things seamlessly, and subsequent performances would probably be much slicker.  I would have liked to see a bit of colour in the church (altar cloth and maybe some discreet set dressing) – but that is personal choice, as I felt it looked a little bland.

The costumes were good, and suited the cast, both colourful and well-chosen.

Musically we were treated to a tuneful production, plenty of warmth, comedy and harmony in all the numbers, although the finale felt a little under-rehearsed!  Choreography was fine, and suited most abilities.

Angelena O’selle (Deloris Van Cartier), gave us a full-on well-sung portrayal, which I enjoyed, she interacted well with the cast, and integrated well in the ensemble numbers – nicely achieved.  Cera Rose Pickering and Katie Donnarumma were good foils as Deloris’ backing singers.

Helen Fruin (Mother Superior) was very down-to-earth, and sang the part beautifully.  I loved her interpretation.  Andy Kirtley (Monsignor O’hara) was the voice of reason and certainly looked the part.

Andy Frost (Curtis Jackson) was a fairly laid back gangster, who came into his own when faced with the prospect of shooting Deloris.  His ‘gang’ of Ollie Pajak (Joey), Regan Hughes-Franklin (Pablo) and Samuel Smith (TJ) created an excellent trio with good characterisations, I enjoyed ‘Lady in the Long Black Dress’ very much, they played with and off each other with a sense of camaraderie.

Luke Ricketts (Eddie) showed a good singing voice, and created the diffident character well, I loved his sense of confusion when he actually fired his gun….nice touch.

Charlotte Greenwood (Mary Robert) was a charming postulant, singing the ‘Life I Never Led’ with vivacity and understanding, nicely achieved.

Brooke Shannon, Angie Frost, Emily Marks and Carmel Ames played the principal Nuns – all created their individual characters and led the ensemble of enthusiastic Nuns very well.

 

There were a couple of places where I felt the chattering of the Nuns went on a little long, but assume it was allowing for costume changes, so would have decreased in time over the run!!

Overall an enjoyable show, with some good performances. 

My thanks to BTC for their continued hospitality, which is always appreciated.

Nova Horley

NODA Representative - NODA East District 3

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