Sister Act

Hallelujah! Keighley Musical Theatre Company treated us to some divine entertainment this week. Sister Act is a show which allows a large number of actors the opportunity to show off their talents and shine they certainly did. So, if each name doesn’t get a personal mention, please be sure that everyone’s efforts combined to make this into a heavenly evening.

Based on the 1992 movie, Sister Act tells the unlikely story of Delores, a cabaret singer who is housed in witness protection in a convent. In charge of said convent is the Mother Superior played with great dignity (and glamour) by Laura Judge. Laura’s diction was superb in both singing and speaking, and this really assisted her storytelling in the songs, especially I haven’t got a prayer. The convent is packed with nuns of character. It was a credit to the actors and director that these quirky individuals shone throughout the show, the characterisation never dropped. Chief among them, of course, were the three featured nuns- Mary Lazarus, Mary Patrick and Mary Robert.  These were all fantastic, contrasting performances and The Life I Never Led sung by Chloe Judge was one of the highlights of the show. Jill Whitehouse also strutted her stuff in a baseball cap as a rapper nun. What a great sense of comedy!

In pursuit of our fugitive nun are a set of gangsters, ably played by Kylan Granger, Harvey Dewhirst, K. Ellis and Andy Los. The trio Lady in the Long Black dress was absolutely hilarious. These three young men (Joey, TJ and Pablo) have fabulous comedy timing and boy can they sell a crazy dance.

But the undoubted star of the show was Delores, played with panache by Leanne Watson. Her Deep South accent was impeccable and made this character totally convincing. She played the betrayed sweetheart, the frightened victim and the inspirational friend with complete ease. Her opening trio with Charlie Holmes and Megan Hunt came straight out of the Three Degrees and kicked the show off to a devilish start. The brilliant band was also showcased in this number. Led by Wil Jones, they were superb throughout, belting out these banger tunes, but never overwhelming the voices. This new MD is an asset to the society.

Choreography was in the distinctive signature style of Judith Chapman. It was full of detail, impact and enthusiasm and the big ensemble numbers really shone. Giles Atkinson, the director was left with the challenge of staging this musical, which really shows its roots in film. There are endless short scenes and Giles had to navigate numerous scene changes without the aid of hydraulics and sophisticated lighting which can be used in a professional theatre. The talent of the cast and the fast pace of the show ensured that it always kept moving along. The final megamix of songs in fantastic glamour costumes for all was a sweet treat that the audience really enjoyed.

Keighley MTC has succeeded in building a fantastic company of performers, front of house and crew. Some I recognise from many years, even being involved here since they were children. But every year KMTC have fully open auditions and new members are constantly welcomed in to the fold. This has yielded a really successful team which goes from strength to strength. Every good wish to the new Chair, Colin Mitchell who steps up to fill the big shoes of Louise Hindle Barton, who is now President of the society.

Bless you all!

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