Sister Act follows nightclub singer Deloris Van Cartier, who is forced into hiding in a convent after witnessing a crime. Struggling to fit into convent life, Deloris soon transforms the struggling choir with her energy and love of music, bringing new life to the church and community. As friendships grow and danger closes in, she helps the sisters find their confidence while discovering the importance of loyalty, faith, and belonging.
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Review written by Ros Hollands
This year's SALOS production is 'Sister Act', at the Wyvern Theatre this week, and it is quite a tour de force in more ways than one.
The society, under the direction of Russell Langdown, has taken on a production that was written really for film. 'Difficult' is the word to describe the intricacies of the stunning set. Some problems with the set in the first act of the first night did not deter from a memorable show.
This is primarily a ladies' chorus show with a powerful leading lady in the guise of Deloris. Carrie Barras was indeed a force to be reckoned with. Her very accomplished performance was stand out excellent and she was very believable in every way. What a stunning voice she has.
Nicky Pye, Alison Canning and Amy Cole entered into their roles and nuns with gusto.
Judith Sharp played the elegant Mother Superior. Her beautiful voice and clear diction reverberated around the theatre.
I loved Ray Dance's portrayal of Monsignor O'Hara. His Irish accent never wavered.
Deloris' nemesis, Curtis, was played by a slightly menacing Simon Roberts, with Martin Whiteley as Sweaty Eddie, the police officer who is sweet on Deloris and who has a clever costume change on stage. I'll say no more.
The three stooges (I'll call them that) - Pablo played by James Canning, Christopher King as TJ and Luke Browne as Joey - did the men of the society proud with sterling work on stage. Very enjoyable indeed.
This was a strong cast with excellent direction by Russell and effective choreography from Gemma Short.
The excellent band, under MD Malcolm Webb, singers and choreography were very tight throughout.
This show was well rehearsed, with excellent staging, lighting, sound and wonderful colourful costumes.
I loved it and so I'm sure did the rest of the audience on this first night.
Ros Hollands, Swindon Advertiser (21/10/15)
NODA South West District 16 Achievement Award
SALOS is delighted to learn that 'Sister Act' won the South West District 16 Achievement Award 2015, as well as having been nominated for the Best Musical Production in the South West for 2015.
The award was presented in Bristol at the NODA Awards evening in March 2016 and members were delighted to receive it on behalf of the society.
Creative team
- Russell Langdown Director
- Sandra Gilbert Associate Director
- Malcolm Webb Musical Director
- Gemma Short Choreographer
- Sarah Wrixon Technical Stage Manager
- Judith Sharp Chorus Mistress
Principal cast
- Carrie Barras Deloris
- Judith Sharp Mother Superior
- Martin Whiteley Eddie
- Ray Dance Monsignor
- Simon Roberts Curtis
- Luke Browne Joey
- Christopher King TJ
- James Canning Pablo
- Nikky Pye Sister Mary Robert
- Amy Cole Sister Mary Patrick
- Alison Canning Sister Mary Lazarus
- Gemma Stubbins, Chloe Barnes, Georgia Rees & Abbie Sims Deloris' Backing Singers
Ensemble
Mark Newton, Martin Lawrence, Chris Coleman, Stuart Dark, Tony Asprey, Carol Jeffcutt, Effie Carter, Katie Langan, Sue-Ling Whiteley, Becci Benson, Jenny Harber, Albertine Davies, Wendy Skane, Louise Van Der Watt, Beth Fisher, Clare Walshe, Rachel Sparrow, Sarah Asprey, Nicky Ashdown, Lucy Becerra