Sister Act

Based on the hit film of the same name, set in Philadelphia at the height of the Disco era, Alan Menken’s score helped make this is a big, vibrant spectacular show.

Hannah Pearson had a great sassy tone to her vocals and performance as Deloris. Very much a fish out of water gangsters moll, having to go into witness protection of a sort, when she’s suddenly thrust into an almost alien world in the local convent compared to her normal nightclub singer lifestyle.  

Gina Brian, a decided glint in her eye as Mother Superior, her wry witty dialogue as she faithfully ponders what is God’s plan for her church, whilst trying to contain the force of nature called Deloris, really great rapport between these two throughout. Excellent performances from both well cast roles.

Lisa Stewart as Sister Mary Patrick, Aimee Stewart as Sister Mary Robert, a young, gauche postulate, enraptured by the worldly Deloris, her solo together was exquisite, together with Sharon Lawton, the humorous and lively Sister Mary Lazarus, a nod also to Sister Mary Martin-of-Tours, Rosemary Gresty, all performed well, lovely harmonious voices.

Gangster Curtis, James Dawe, together with his gang were suitably menacing and humorous in various degrees, they brought a real threat to the proceedings. Lovely vocal and dance performances.

Beautiful emotively sung vocal work from Delores's lovelorn ex-school friend cop Eddie, played touchingly by Rhys Gregory. Great comic timings from Richard Shepherd as stage struck Monsignor O'Hara.

Director and Choreographer Martyn Knight, aided and abetted by Assistant Ann McArdle did an excellent job of bringing this musical to life. Some really nice cross choreography in “Take Me To Heaven”. A strong cast, all with excellent voices brought us a big visual brilliant show.

Musical Director Laura Foxcroft a fantastic job. Superlative lead and harmony vocals throughout. A real feel of the 70s disco period, recreating that oh so distinctive Philadelphia sound.

Slick scene changes. Good sound, there was the odd late mic fade-in, that said, with so many radio mics, music slightly too loud in the opening scenes drowning the leads a little, this was soon adjusted. Effective lighting, Costumes were spot on.

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