Sister Act

Some shows are simply “good entertainment” and this one in particular is known at the “Feel-good” musical. It would be difficult to watch and not thoroughly enjoy oneself. Alan Menken surpasses himself with a score so familiar and yet new and with the constant cycle of wonderful dance routines it is difficult to restrain oneself from foot tapping and finger clicking.The story, though thin, is clear and the situations simply made to lead to the next laugh or song. A great night’s entertainment and not too long either !

The well-loved score was delivered with verve, enhanced by good support from the pit. There were some good harmonies and some excellent solo voices. Diction was pretty good although in many of the big numbers it really doesn’t matter what the nuns are singing about – it’s all such fun. Where it was vital the words were clear and musical lines were put over with apparent ease. Fern Pritchard & Ada Barume led the way with some powerful singing and well-handled emotion and without once pushing too hard or going over-the-top. It was great to hear some real singing instead of shouting – not bad for such big numbers. The boys were not left behind: singing melodiously with some great harmonies. 

The set (Scenic Projects) was big and could have been overwhelming but the cast’s vivacious performance held its own. Most changes were operated smoothly, although there were some distracting bangs during “front” scenes. Although the need for speed is imperative a little more appreciation for the work of the actors would be welcomed. The set was well lit, showing it off to good advantage.

The opening scene of the show is not easy. It’s the way it’s written and for once Director and cast managed to make it work. Unfortunately some of the gags could have done with more selling as it took the audience a while to warm up. Once Ernie was shot (beautifully played with an excellent voice) things hotted up and the show never lost pace and verve.

As expected from this Director the production was well planned with considerable attention to detail. This cannot be underestimated and certainly added to the overall enjoyment of the piece. Properties were appropriate, and clothes appropriately worn. Eddie’s “strip-tease” was very well worked and a total surprise to those seeing the show for the first time. The chase worked well with some nifty use of the doors and some very humorous use of the various characters of the nuns.

The dance routines were well put together and performed with accuracy and vivacity. Once again it was good to see that characterisations weren’t sacrificed to the routine, but not distracting either. As these are central to the success of the show if was pleasing that every routine worked and each number topped the last until the all-inclusive finales.

All the characters were well defined. This is so vital in a story where subtly is not requested. The dialogue was well presented with some excellent timing and clarity of articulation. The roles were well cast and every actor was totally into their own portrayal. This ensured the immediacy the show requires and kept the audience firmly on board.

The sound balance was good although the band was somewhat over mixed. There is some great orchestration in this show with some wonderful colouring and to a certain extent this was smoothed out. It was good, though, to hear the voices aided by some very good diction.

This is a fun show and everybody on stage was enjoying it fully. This did not however, l;ead to any self indulgence or excessive jollying, Discipline was well maintained ensuring a good finish to the presentation which was thoroughly enjoyed by the packed house.

This proved a very good choice by the company, allowing the girls a chance to star and everyone to join in the fun. Hard work during rehearsal ensured a slick presentation which ranked alongside some of WOW’s more special productions.

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