Sister Act

What a pleasure to visit my friends from Blyth MTC at the Phoenix Theatre to see their latest production; Sister Act – music by Alan Menken and lyrics by Glenn Slater. A story about a nightclub singer who witnesses a murder committed by her gangster boss. In order for her to testify against him and to keep her alive for that purpose, she is hidden away by the police in a convent, during which time she has to comply, somewhat unwillingly, with the rules and lifestyle of the rest of the nuns. She puts her musical abilities to good use, taking over the running of the choir and eventually bolstering the dwindling numbers of church-goers. She succeeds, with the help of her ‘Sisters’ to overcome the dramatic efforts of her boss and his crew to recapture her, finally winning an invitation to the choir to entertain the Pope.

This show is a firm favourite with its casts and audiences world-wide due to its uplifting feel-good factor, its comedy and emotion, fantastic musical numbers and the opportunity for the whole team to ‘get involved’. It is not surprising, therefore, that licences to perform Sister Act are restricted because of it constantly being revived and toured all over the World.

Firstly, I was sad to learn that a long-standing friend and stalwart of the Society; Maurice Dobson, has had to stand down from the position of Chairman of this Group, due to health issues. We wish him well in his retirement. It was lovely to meet him before the show. Thanks for all the happy memories, Maurice.

We were met in the foyer of the Theatre by ‘nuns’ all in costume. Our hosts, once again providing an immersive experience for their packed audience from the word go.

It was good to see a full-stage video wall being used instead of the laborious process of flying in and out various backcloths for scene changes. This effect provides swift and seamless transitions and, in my view is a definite benefit.

From the outset it was apparent this was going to be a great show, full of colour, superb music and movement; 70s style costumes and makeup, excellent characterisations and comedic, laugh-out-loud moments enjoyed by the whole audience. With a super ensemble full of activity and participation, each of the cast were individually characterised and they remained in their guise all throughout the action. Well done!.

Shaunagh Burge as Deloris Van Cartier the nightclub singer, provided a tour de force performance. She has a wonderful voice and her characterisation was almost flawless. She was beautifully supported by Kath Dryden with her re-invented warm and caring portrayal of Mother Superior. A role she first took on several years ago with Beaconsfield OS. Her voice and character - like good wine….!. Kriss Spratt was ‘the baddie’, Curtis Jackson, a nightclub owner and all-round nasty. His mafia-like sidekicks Marc Doogan as Joey, Kieren Simm playing T.J. and Will Robinson as Pablo were very well cast and provided the comedy superbly. Andrew Herron as the love-struck policeman Officer Eddie Souther (Sweaty Eddie), has a nice singing voice and played his role very well. The second line principals were also superbly played by Sarah Robinson and Grace Winpenny as the nightclub backing singers Michelle and Tina, complete with Bob Douglas and Mark Leese in their many roles. Fabulous baby!!!.

We now come to the members of the convent who certainly found their voices and, with Deloris’ help, gave a vocally wonderful and emotional ensemble piece. With strong and very capable performances from Judith Leese as ‘rapper’ Sister Mary Lazarus, Ashleigh McMaster as the bubbly Sister Mary Patrick, and a wonderful performance from Jess Field as postulant Sister Mary Robert – what a voice!. There were also some lovely cameos from Michael Douglas as Monsigneur O’Hara, June Fisher as Sister Mary Theresa and Brenda Forster as Sister Mary Martin-of-Tours. Congratulations to you all.

The creative team of Jackie Grey – Director and Co-choreographer with Hayleigh Rose, and John Hudson – Musical Director (with his nine-piece live band) can be super proud of their efforts; complimented by Mark Turner (Brightstar Lighting and Sound) for some wonderful effects, Darrin Roll (Dazzling Sounds) for sound and projections (Frendt Theatrical Projections), Stage Manager Rachel Grundy and her team, and costumes and props by Peter Denton, Lynne Simm, Susannah Thompson and Sonia Hall. They collectively succeeded in presenting us with a superb musical theatre production. Thank you for the experience.

Finally, thanks to new Chairman Graeme from me and my companion Pauleen, Councillor Peter and Youth Coordinator Michelle for the invitation and an excellent night’s entertainment.

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