Sister Act

Sister Act, currently playing at The Capitol Theatre, is a heavenly hit that promises an evening of uplifting entertainment and delivers. Sister Act is nun-stop entertainment!

Bill Buckhurst directs the show based on the 1992 movie. The plot remains the same, revolving around Deloris Van Cartier (Casey Donovan), a lounge singer. Unfortunately for Deloris, she is a witness to a murder and placed in protection at a convent where, after a few hiccups, she transforms the choir, convent and herself in the process.

The musical maintains a comedic and feel-good tone, with solid performances anchoring the story. Whether on screen or on stage, Sister Act delivers an uplifting heavenly message about the power of community.

The new musical has changed decades to the 70s, location to Philadelphia and showcases notable differences in character evolution in its adaptation.

Deloris's evolution is more pronounced, amplified by powerful musical numbers like "Fabulous, Baby!" and "Sister Act", highlighting her transition from seeking fame to finding fulfilment in camaraderie and faith. Her bond with the nuns develops primarily through shared experiences and her genuine desire to help them improve their choir, gradually realising she has gained a sisterhood. 

Donovan delivers a powerhouse performance as Deloris, her vocals soaring with a soulful vibrancy that raised the roof and earned cheers from the audience. She commands the stage with a presence that is nothing short of sublime.

Mother Superior’s (Genevieve Lemon) strict, initially resistant stance towards Deloris softens as their relationship moves from conflict to mutual respect. The musical deepens the transformation via heartfelt songs. "Here Within These Walls" and "I Haven't Got a Prayer” which expose her vulnerability, growing acceptance of change, and Deloris’s unconventional methods. As the strict yet compassionate Mother Superior, Lemon balances humour and warmth perfectly; her comic timing is heavenly. 

Sister Mary Robert, Sister Mary Patrick, and Sister Mary Lazarus' roles are similar but are more expanded. 

Sister Mary Lazarus (Rhonda Burchmore) is the cantankerous, somewhat conservative nun who initially leads the choir. Burchmore injects a dose of raucous fun into every scene she graces as the feisty yet likeable nun. Who would have thought she could rap in Latin? Burchmore remains consistent, serving as comic relief and a source of initial resistance, but also has moments that reveal her adaptability and eventual acceptance. And those legs do make a cheeky appearance in a chorus line of tapping nuns. Yes, you read that correctly.

Sister Mary Robert (Sophie Montague) is the shy and timid novice who gains confidence. Her growth is more explicit in the musical, and her heartfelt solo, "The Life I Never Led," is beautifully delivered by Montague as the vulnerable desires are laid bare becoming and self-assurance rises. 

Sister Mary Patrick (Bianca Bruce) embraces Deloris and the changes she brings almost immediately Bruce delivers an enthusiastic and bubbly character remaining a consistent source of support. 

Notable supporting characters undergo significant differences between the movie and the musical adaptation.

Eddie Southe (Raphael Wong) is a steady support for Deloris.  His character is expanded and is more actively involved in the story, with his feelings for Deloris more developed. Eddie even gets his musical number, "I Could Be That Guy," which showcases his desire to be brave and confident and has a hilarious reveal at its conclusion. 

Then there are bad guys. Curtis Jackson (James Bryers) is the main antagonist. This mobster constantly threatens Deloris's safety. Bryers is a menacing and cold villain whose dark side shows in "When I Find My Baby”. 

TJ (James Bell), Joey (Tom Struik), and Pablo (Jordan Angelides) are Curtis’s bumbling henchmen who serve as comic relief while also being somewhat menacing. They are also featured in several musical numbers. Some of the buffoonery that follows the pair is hilarious including a dynamic chase scene involving Deloris that had the audience in stitches. 

The musical offers a fresh, original score with a '70s flair. Alan Menken has created a style reminiscent of disco, soul, and Motown, fitting the 1970s setting.  “Take Me to Heaven” and “Raise Your Voice” will be running through everyone’s mind long after they leave the show. Alongside the uplifting score is that 70’s choreography (by Alistair David) which is joyful and cheeky and, at times, 70’s cringe. 

The design (by Morgan Large) beautifully transitions between the disco world of Deloris Van Cartier and the spiritually rich but somewhat dull convent. The sets transform swiftly, ensuring that the pace never falters, while a breathtaking array of colours and strategic spotlighting highlights the drama and sets the emotional tone for each scene. The choir scenes, in particular, are bathed in a glow that feels almost ethereal as they grow, elevating the musical numbers to a near-celestial level. 

The costumes (designed by Morgan Large) have the ‘70s influence, apparent from the hair (and moustaches) to the flair. Deloris sparkles as she steps onto the stage, capturing the mirror ball disco essence of the decade in sequinned silver and her knee-high boots. A lot of fun has been had putting together these costumes with a ‘70s palate, that adds a contrast to the austere habits of the nuns. The evolution of costumes by the finale brilliantly highlights the themes of transformation, unity, and the blending of secular and sacred worlds and what a finale. 

One of the standout aspects of this production is its fun and immersive elements. The audience is often made to feel like they are part of the convent’s congregation, invited to clap and sing along. During musical numbers like "Raise Your Voice" and "Take Me to Heaven," the energy in the theatre becomes infectious.

Sister Act at The Capitol Theatre is a production that truly sings praises to the art of musical theatre. With stellar performances, dazzling staging, and immersive fun, audiences will leave the theatre with spirits lifted and hearts full. 

Whether you’re a devout fan of the original film or a newcomer to the story, this production is a sacramental celebration of joy that will leave you praying for more. 

Nicole Smith

Photographer: Daniel Boud