What do you call a nun with a washing machine on her head? Sister-matic! Now that old joke is out the way, on with the review…
Nun’s the Word
Sister Act follows the story of club singer Doloris Van Cartier. Witnessing her gangster boyfriend shoot a man, she suddenly finds herself hiding out undercover in a convent whilst waiting to testify in court. This un-convent-ional nun has a lot to learn about the sisterhood, but soon uses her vocal talents to raise the (church) roof, both figuratively and financially.
Landi Oshinowo play Doloris. Can she sing? Oh sister! Oshinowo belts the showtunes, and is a vocal powerhouse throughout. Comparisons to Whoopi Goldberg are perhaps inevitable – and it’s a tough act to follow – but she makes the role her own and has plenty of sass.
Back in the Habit
Coronation Street icon Sue Cleaver returns to the stage after thirty years, to play Mother Superior. She brings a real warmth to the role and has great comic timing, a smart casting choice! Cleaver switches seamlessly from comedy to the desperate frustration of Dolores’ unholy influence on the straight-laced sisters.
Extra comedy ensues from the gaggles of nuns – ranging from the very old to to cranky, timid and, later, funky. Isabel Canning excels as over-eager evangelist Sister Mary Patrick. Canning is a ball of biblical energy and her enthusiasm is infectious. Sister Mary Robert (Eloise Runette) delivers a beautiful rendition of The Life I Never Led, and we really share in her joy at finally being let loose.
Alfie Parker’s Eddie Souther or ‘Steady Eddie’ gets some of the biggest laughs, and is the underdog we’re all rooting for. The romantic subplot between him and Deloris feels a little tacked on, but I Could be That Guy is sensational and has a very clever costume change.
Divine Inspiration
Morgan Large’s clever set design revolves around a huge stained glass window, lit to change in more colours than Joseph’s coat. Altar boys whisk set pieces on and off to transform the space from everything to a seedy back alley and nightclub to the nun’s cloisters, a police station and more.
The pace seems a little sluggish in the second act, and some of the songs are forgettable. Sadly, film favourites such as I Will Follow Him are missing, however this might be down to licensing rights. Niggles aside, the production builds to a satisfying finale and has many audience members on their feet and dancing in the aisles.
Overall this is a slick and polished show with production values worthy of the West End. Led by musical director Tom Slade, the live orchestra sounds divine and really lifts the score. The large cast work tirelessly and we’re treated to some tight choreography and strong vocals.
MAGIC RATING
VALUE FOR MONEY
OVERALL
Get thee to a nunnery (or The Grand Opera House Box Office) and book your tickets now! Sister Act The Musical runs in York until Saturday 11th May, booking at https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/sister-act/grand-opera-house-york/
Further tour dates and booking links at www.sisteractthemusical.co.uk
Disclaimer: Tickets were kindly provided for this performance, however all opinions are honest and are our own.
Review Wizard 