Review by Eric Page
If you’re looking for a night of pure joy, laughter, and fantastic music, look no further than Sister Act: The Musical at Brighton’s lovely Theatre Royal. From the off this production radiates fun, energy, and an infectious sense of joy that will leave you grinning from ear to ear. Based on, but not a copy of the famous film, we keep the silly singer, nuns and mafioso murder mix but have a range of new original songs deeply in the ’70s styles.
This is a musical about the joy found in singing and being all for nun and nun for all. Each cast member excelled in their solo performances, delivering powerful vocals that soared through the theatre with ease. From soulful ballads to upbeat gospel numbers, every song was delivered with passion and flair. And when the cast came together for duets, the harmonies were simply magical, sending shivers.
The ensemble singing piece are on point, funny and raise the rafters when these sisters get going. The whole cast rocks and turns it out, they’re on top nun form. Within the stellar performance there’s some standout moments: Kate Powell‘s Mother Superior giving us fine character development with her cut glass English voice as she first resists and them finally embraces the changes occurring around her.
Alfie Parker‘s Steady Eddie is a comedic delight who showstops with his disco dream double reveal! Eloise Runnette’s Sister Mary Robert offers up a heartfelt belter of a hope filled number which brought the audience to its feet and had a few folk in tears. Then shimmering powerhouse Landi Oshinowo as Deloris is simply the best, allowing her powerful voice to wrap itself round the lyrics and rhythms, driving the emotional core of this musical and offering us as much tender reflection as bold, brassy assertion. She is hypnotic and nails the comedy timing each and every time. Her vocal range supporting this tender performance of finding yourself through supporting others, with some ultra cultural clash.
Full cast and creative info here
The energetic narrative pace of the show kept me fully engaged throughout. The story unfolds seamlessly, with plenty of camp humour and heartwarming moments along the way. It’s a feel-good journey that you won’t want to end. One of the highlights of Sister Act is its solid female lineup. From the sassy Deloris Van Cartier to the endearing Sister Mary Clarence, each character is brought to life with depth and charisma. The chemistry between the cast members is palpable, adding a layer of authenticity to the performance. Only the inevitable romance between Steady Eddie and Deloris feels a bit missed, but that’s some small criticism of a solidly entertaining night.
Let’s talk about the visuals. The costumes are vintage perfection, transporting you back to the glamorous era of the 1970s. The sequins are over the top camp, the colours are vibrant, and every detail is on point. There’s some delicious drag references and it’s all done with real passion and humble respect for the Catholic faith it’s rooted in. It’s a nice touch that the jokes aren’t at the expense of the sisters’ faith and gives this vintage musical a foundation in inclusion which echoes to a modern audience.
And the set? It’s huge and impressive, squished into the Theatre Royal’s Rococo spaces but throbbing with lights, projections and siding LED lit doors; presenting the various spaces the action takes place, providing the perfect backdrop for the dazzling performances.
A special mention must go to the band, directed by Tom Slade, whose musical support elevated the entire production. The sound was balanced to perfection. The clever lighting added to the atmosphere, creating moments of drama and spectacle that captivated the audience.
The auditorium was sold out, packed, and throbbing with expectation and the audience was well-behaved and seemingly thoroughly enjoyed the show. The energy in the theatre was electric, with laughter and applause ringing out after each number.
Sister Act: The Musical is an absolute delight from beginning to end. It’s a testament to the power of music, laughter, and sisterhood, and it left me smiling long after the final curtain call. Don’t miss your chance to experience this uplifting and entertaining production – it’s an evening you won’t soon forget, what a Nunderful world, this is one class act, Sisters.
For more info or to buy tickets (if you can) see the Theatre Royal website here
You must be logged in to post a comment.