Sister Act

There was plenty of 'rejoicing' at Whitkirk's production of 'Sister Act' both onstage and in the audience! It never ceases to amaze me how this community group manage to achieve what they do against all the odds - small stage, no wing space, a bog-standard church hall - all transformed to present productions that larger companies shy away from. What they do have is theatrical talent and team spirit which transcends mere obstacles! The Director, Charlotte Hodge, had her work cut out directing a large cast of nuns and villians, but it worked to perfection. She was helped in no small measure by Dance Captain, Helen Thomson, a strong cast of principals - from a  spirited Deloris, a mean Curtis with his henchmen, a cute Eddie and an array of Sister Marys, an assortment of minor principals and not forgetting Monsignor O'Hara, everyone brought energy to their roles - no mean feat, on one of the hottest evenings of the year!

The Musical Director, Louise Norbury-Robinson, had all my admiration - working unseen from behind the company, cramped and suffering from a cracked rib, she drove her orchestra along at a cracking pace (no pun intended!) the company taking musical cues from monitors. Every word, in lyrics and dialogue, was clear and not drowned out. As always at Whitkirk, the technicians did a brilliant job with lighting, sound, stage management and crew (led by the experienced Andrew Thomson). Not just a tiny criticism of Whitkirk, but all companies - if the stage crew go on stage to move sets, etc., can they be in costume? It just looks more professional, especially if the lighting is full-on.

There are some professional shows that I have seen where, at the end, I might comment,'that would be a great show for amateurs' - 'Sister Act' is one of them - good roles for women (of all ages!), a good story and lots of good singing! Whitkirk definitely stepped up to the mark with this production and raised their voices! Congratulations are in order for the whole company.

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