Sister Act the Musical

This stage musical is a joyful, feel good comedy powered by a vibrant, disco inspired score from Alan Menken and Glenn Slater. The club captured the show’s lively, fast paced spirit, with much of the humour centred around disco diva Deloris Van Cartier. After witnessing a crime, Deloris is hidden away in a convent and disguised as Sister Mary Clarence. What follows is a riot of personality clashes, musical mayhem, and heartfelt transformation as Deloris shakes up the quiet convent community in the most entertaining way. Laura Fountain delivered an absolutely fabulous performance as Deloris, combining confidence, comic sharpness, and a great vocal range. Her versatility anchored the production, particularly as Deloris attempted to inspire and develop the choral ability of the feisty nuns at the Convent of the Queen of Angels Church, all while her ex boyfriend Curtis and his mob closed in to settle an old score. Alison C. Irvine kept the self righteous Mother Superior firmly in command, giving the role crisp authority that shaped the entire convent dynamic. Her performance of “I Haven’t Got a Prayer” landed with genuine feeling. Around her, the other nuns each revealed distinct personalities. Chaela McClelland’s wide eyed Sister Mary Robert was endearing and sincere; Leah Smith infused Sister Mary Patrick with infectious exuberance; and Maria Antelmi revitalised Sister Mary Lazarus, firing off her pointed one liners with sharp precision. Iain Usher offered a dignified and grounded portrayal of Monsignor O’Hara, providing a calm centre amid the surrounding chaos. Daniel Inglis-McDonald delivered a wonderfully understated performance as the shy, soft spoken “Sweaty” Eddie, gradually revealing the character’s inner courage until he finally found the confidence to make his move on Deloris. Scott McCulloch was well cast as gangster Curtis, bringing just the right blend of menace and swagger, supported by his mob Murray Keir (TJ), John Munro (Joey) and Alan McLean (Pablo), each carving out their own distinct identity. Other supporting principals included Laura Blyth and Carol McLaughlan as Sisters Mary Martin of Tours and Mary Theresa, while Clare Walsh and Jennifer Scott played Deloris’s backing group, Tina and Michelle.  Chris Fountain took on the role of Ernie, along with several smaller cameo parts, adding to the overall texture of the production. The entire cast performed to a high standard, bringing great energy and commitment to every scene. The musical numbers were well performed and tightly choreographed using a minimalistic set with great effect and seamless scene changes, enhanced by creative lighting effects that added atmosphere and focus throughout. This production delivered first rate entertainment, packed with action and plenty of laughs which all involved should feel extremely proud of.

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