Sister Act NODA Review

The Sister Act NODA Review is in!

Noda Scotland Region 4 Show Report-Craig Inglis

Show: Sister Act

Society: Harlequin

Director: Blair Ledgerwood-Cruikshank         Producer: Ruth Baillie

Musical Director: Karen McKay                        Choreographer: Chris Glasgow

Date: 23rd March 2018

Report:

Based on the much loved 1992 hit film, Sister Act is the complete package of a modern feel good musical comedy. From the minute the overture starts there is a high level of energy required to bring this story to life and transport us back to the 1970s, and Harlequin did not disappoint. The first Character we meet is the fabulous Deloris Van Cartier, who we follow throughout the show. With very little rest time off stage this is a very demanding role to perform, and it was outstandinglyportrayed by Anna Cowan who gave a power house performance throughout. A true triple threat, Anna's characterisation was faultless throughout her acting, singing and dancing. Starting the show off auditioning with her backing singer girlfriends, the comical and lively Michelle and Tina, confidently played by Caroline Bury Kirstin West, Deloris witnesses a murder committed by her lover Curtis. Capturing Curtis contrastingly with menacingly evil and comedy was Iain Shearer. Iain was supported fantastically by his 'gang of goons'; the charismatic Joey (Jack McNeilage), comical Spanish(Max Yuill), and twinkle toes funny-man TJ (Ruaridh Burns). The solid performances from all four boys was lovely to see, especially in their numbers 'When I find my Baby' and Lady in the Long Black Dress'. In an attempt to protect Deloris she is placed into witness protection by the hero of the show Eddie (Kevin Glasgow). Kevin's portrayal of this sweaty and geeky Police Officer was great to watch and his number 'I Could be That Guy' had the audience cheering and laughing throughout. Dealing with the tricky costume changes with effortlessness during the song should be commended ... especially keeping the audience in stiches while dealing with a trouser leg that was not for coming off!Eddie finds the perfect place to hide Deloris, in the convent of course. Although the audience who are fans of the show and film know what's coming, the first entrance of the nuns with their unique off key singing was well received and very funny. Continuing the comedy in the convent was Sophie Aziz who captured the stern Mother Superior with certainty and gave a flawless characterisation and vocal throughout. In contrast to Mother Superior was the energetic and happy Sister Mary Patrick (Aimee Mejury), sweet and gentle Sister Mary Robert (Rebecca Baillie) and comedic hip-hop dancing Sister Mary Lazarus (Kara McQueen). All three girls worked well together and were supported fantastically by a talented ensemble of nuns including the mind wandering Sister Mary Martin of Tours (Siobhan Archibald) and the very old, old, old, Sister Mary Theresa (Iman Akhtar). The full ensemble and Musical Director Karen should be congratulated for the strong vocal numbers throughout which left me blown away by the power and successof the complex harmonies, especially in 'Sunday Morning Fever'. Special mention also to Jamie McQueen for his hilarious performance and take on Monsignor O'Hara. With sparkling choreography from Chris, a clever use of set and lovely characterisation from director Blair, and the support form a committed Harlequin crew and committee the show was truly 'Fabulous Baby!'. Well Done!