Sister Act

On arrival, a very warm welcome was received by everyone from Dereham Theatre Company for my first outing into District 5 for opening night.

Sister Act is one of those musicals that lifts not only the spirits and raises smiles, but also must be such fun to be involved in. This became obvious as I watched this production, every single member of the cast were one unit, having such a good time and this radiance came over in the performance that was delivered. Supported by a wonderful 11 strong orchestra (led by Jake Medler), once the sound/microphone level balance hit the sweet spot following the opening number, the energy of this show was delivered with a slickness and energy across the whole production. Scene changes were seamless, and I particularly liked the office of the Police department which folded back to become part of the key scenes within the church. The use of good lighting also added to the overall effect, especially through the centre stage door of the church. Vocals throughout the show were of a high standard, along with the choreography and costumes.

Taking the lead as the exuberant Deloris Van Cartier, Charlie Bunting delivered strong vocals throughout, culminating in the beautiful delivery of the title song “Sister Act.” This was assisted by some excellent placement of the Nuns above in the church, creating the epiphany moment that Deloris realises who her “Sisters” really are, set against the world she previously dreamt of having.

Joseph Reed’s characterisation of the shy kind cop Police Officer Eddie Souther, was very strong, and his solo of “I could be that Guy”, was very cleverly done by transforming him from cop, to cool guy, and back to cop again, in time with the music, by the removal of each costume by the dancers, a real highlight.

The gangster boyfriend of Deloris, Curtis, was played by Lee Knights, and his three sidekicks, TJ (Will Taylor), Joey (Adam Wengrow) and Pablo (Michael Stoker). Some very high notes and cool moves in the song “Lady in the Long Black Dress”.

Monsignor O’Hara (Gary Davison), Michelle (Rebecca Ludman), Tina (Danielle Standing) and Ernie (Charlie Summer), completed the supporting roles.

Sister Mary Lazarus, played by Karen Bates, cleverly went from the disgruntled teacher of the out of tune choir, to a hilarious and excited part of the resulting transformation. Jess Lloyd was also excellent as the always enthusiastic, positive, and happy Sister Mary Patrick. She looked genuinely hurt when Deloris revealed her truth self.

I loved the performance of Hanna Ladbrooke, as Sister Mary Robert, the young and shy Postulant. Her expressions and diction of the character were top class, culminating in the perfect delivery of the song “The Life I Never Led,” very moving.

It was left to the Mother Superior (played by Philippa Baillie), to attempt to restore the usual peace and tranquillity of the church which had been interrupted by the arrival of Deloris. I was spellbound by this characterisation. Her reactions of despair as the next roof-raising song was delivered were hilarious. Philippa’s tenderness and sensitivity as the protector of the Nuns and the Church was spot on. An outstanding performance.

Thank you for a very enjoyable evening.

David Brammer

District 5

NODA East

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