Sister Act
Bringing a beloved film to the stage is always a challenge, but this production of Sister Act rises to the occasion with a fresh approach and a brand-new soundtrack. While audiences familiar with the movie might expect to hear the same tunes, the musical instead features original compositions by the legendary Alan Menken. Known for his work on Aladdin, Enchanted, and The Little Mermaid, Menken infuses this score with the infectious energy of 1970s motown, soul, and disco, creating a soundtrack that is vibrant and dynamic in its own right.
An absolute crowd pleaser, Sister Act is an uplifting and joyous experience. Packed with humour, this production readily embraces slapstick and farce, with the cast fully leaning into the comedy. There are some unexpected choices in character interpretation, particularly in the vocal work, but these bold decisions add an element of surprise and keep the production feeling fresh. What truly stands out is the unwavering commitment and energy from every performer on stage, which makes their dedication palpable and infectious.
In the lead role of Delores, Casey Donovan shines brightest when she lets loose with her powerhouse vocals. Raphael Wong is nothing short of a revelation, seamlessly blending outstanding singing, dancing, and comedic timing in a flawless charismatic performance. As the stern and no-nonsense Mother Superior, Genevieve Lemon delivers the most grounded and realistic performance in the cast, providing a strong contrast to the larger-than-life comedic players surrounding her.
Sophie Montague dazzles as Sister Mary Robert with her stunning vocal ability, while Bianca Bruce as Sister Mary Patrick brings a hilarious and heartwarming presence to the stage, backed by an equally impressive singing voice. The duo of Kayla Carter (Tina) and Gabriyel Thomas (Michelle) light up every scene they’re in, boasting gorgeous voices and undeniable pizazz. Jordan Angelides brings a lot of fun and charm to the portrayal of Monsignor O’Hara. Tom Struik (Joey) has outstanding dance skills and a gorgeous singing voice. James Bell (TJ) has a gift for physical humour and also sings beautifully.
Visually, the production is a triumph. Morgan Large’s set design is both inventive and practical, making excellent use of flys and rolling set pieces to facilitate seamless and rapid scene transitions. Tim Mitchell’s lighting design is a standout, not only enhancing the aesthetics of the show but also setting the tone and mood with impeccable precision and perfect timing. Alistair David’s choreography injects the production with lively, high-energy movement, blending humor and fun into every routine.
With its infectious energy, stellar performances, and dazzling production values, this staging of Sister Act is a joyous celebration of music, comedy, and theatrical magic.
Kitty Goodall
Photography by Daniel Boud
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