Sister Act Jnr

Sister Act is a show I have seen many times but the junior version was new to me so I was really looking forward to this production.

The story of Delores, a would be night club singer who witnesses a murder and is given police protection in a convent, is a musical comedy with some terrific show tunes and these youngsters had obviously worked really hard producing great chorus numbers as well as showcasing some talented young performers in the principal roles.

Holli Dixey gave an amazing mature performance as Deloris. Her strong singing voice did credit to the uplifting score while her acting skills took us through the emotions required of the role. Very well done. She was well supported by Daisy Dixey as Mother Superior and a good effort by Cameron Kiff as Monsignor O’Hara. Eddie was well played by Tristian Williams. He initially appeared rather nervous but soon settled down into the role and his solo was very well sung.

The principal nuns all played their roles very well as did Megan Watson as Mary Robert whose solo was very nicely sung. Something I feel I should point out here is that as a Postulant she should not have been wearing a habit. This of course is a wardrobe matter and does not in any way detract from Megan’s performance.

Curtis and his henchmen all gave good performances. In fact all of the named characters are to be congratulated on their performance.

With ages ranging from 7 to 17 it was good to see the younger ones playing some of the smaller roles as well as forming part of the ensemble, singing and dancing their way through the production and obviously enjoying themselves. The theatre is quite a large space for young voices not yet able to project, resulting in some dialogue being lost, especially when lines were rushed. These things will of course improve with experience.

Musical accompaniment was by backing tapes which worked well, making a big sound but never drowning out the singers. Scenery was kept simple but effective with a lovely star backcloth used throughout and scene changes which, although numerous, were carried out quickly and efficiently. There were also some impressive lighting effects.

This was a lovely, well costumed junior production, which although officially only lasting an hour was successfully extended with the inclusion of an interval, almost making us feel we had attended a full length matinee.

My congratulations to Abigail and her dedicated team. It was a pleasure to review this show on behalf of my colleague Hazel Hole. Thank you for making us feel so welcome.

Decia Ranger

NODA East

District 07

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