Sister Act Jnr

KYDS is a group that I hold dear to my heart, it stands for everything I believe in when it comes to youth community theatre…. Hard work, talent and a dedicated team at the helm that go above and beyond to give opportunities to young people in the area. All while offering an affordable, inclusive and safe, nurturing environment for it’s members.

I was thrilled to see their latest offering would be Sister Act Jr the musical for several reasons – firstly it is a show I know very well, secondly I knew it was the perfect platform to showcase the talent in this group and thirdly because I wanted to see this lovely group rise to the challenge!

KYDS you did not disappoint! Musically this is a pretty complex affair with harmonies galore and ensemble members being required to take on solo vocals when called for. Huge credit to MD Leah Harding-Payne for creating a lovely sound full of energy and warmth. I was dubious about the use of backing tracks but the sound was so well balanced and the performers so well drilled to come in on time even when the songs were split with dialogue – bravo!

At the heart of this show is Deloris, witness to murder she goes incognito as a nun, hiding from gangster boyfriend Curtis in a convent. This role requires not only strong vocals but a maturity on stage, comedic timing and good movement. Olivia Thackeray in the lead role had these qualities in abundance and lead the cast effortlessly. She showed great stage presence and belted out song after song in a manner beyond her years. She had a great counter part in Matilda Cullen as the Mother Superior who was appropriately disapproving and the perfect stern contrast to Olivia’s flamboyant Deloris. Lovely chemistry between these two talented actors.

All of the supporting nuns were great and each had a moment to shine, including the rapping Mary Lazarus (Ava Cullen) and the excitable Mary Patrick (Annie Wise). Great work all round. I was very pleased to see Nicola Brady in the role of Mary Robert, having spotted her in the ensemble/dancing in previous shows she had always stood out. Nicola certainly took her moment and shone as the young postulant who idolises Deloris. Her solo “The Life I Never Led” was a show highlight.

Credit to all the gangsters, lead by Luke Calvert as gang leader Curtis. They all sang well and particularly strong vocals from Alexis Harding-Payne as Joey. My only critique here is that I didn’t enjoy the addition of other principals dressed as gangsters for one of the musical numbers, in particular the Mother Superior. The numbers were great enough on stage so this was an unnecessary distraction.

Liam O’ Brien as Monsignor understood the comedy of his role which I have seen missed in adult productions so well done to Liam.

Charlie Orchard was perfect as “sweaty Eddie” with an obvious crush on Deloris and a lovely singing voice. He also had the 70’s dance moves down brilliantly and gave a likeable performance.

Choreography was quite challenging but handled very well by the cast, especially the nuns. What I really appreciated was that vocals did not suffer during the dance/movement. Lighting throughout was effective and set the tone for all the big numbers. The set was well made with lovely stained glass windows. Mostly scene changes were handled excellently, the only issue being a very loud change behind Mother Superior during her beautiful solo “Here Within These Walls”. Well done to Matilda for behaving so professionally while this happened.

Performance wise I can’t praise the whole cast enough and congratulate them all. I loved the vibrant costumes of the gangsters and Deloris’ sparkly silver boots but feel an opportunity was missed with the nuns. There should have been a change of colour in the nun’s habits for “Take Me To Heaven” and “Sunday Morning Fever” at least, showing the transition from a tuneless, unenthusiastic choir to showstopping act that fills the coffers of their convent. Otherwise this was a superb effort from a talented and hard working cast. Director Alex Bilsland and her dedicated team of volunteers must be incredibly proud of this joyful production that had the audience cheering throughout. Congratulations to all involved and as always thank you for the warm welcome. I brought my son with me and he is still talking about the show and loved every second.

I wish everyone at KYDS continued success and look forward to seeing you all soon.

 

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