Review by Carissa Shale
Gather together your sisters and prepare yourself for a night of pure, joyful fun and flamboyance — Sister Act is back, and it’s here to answer your prayers.
Bringing energy, joy, and feel-good fun, the Regent Theatre’s latest production makes this classic global phenomenon feel brand new.
Starring the powerhouse Casey Donovan as Deloris Van Cartier, Genevieve Lemon as the dignified yet conflicted Mother Superior, and the ever-hilarious Rhonda Burchmore as Sister Mary Lazarus, this production delivers not only star quality, but a vibrant celebration of sisterhood and resilience. With these three leading talents, Australian theatre audiences are blessed indeed. Donovan shines in particular, effortlessly switching between a powerful belt and a soulful, sweet soprano. Burchmore provides fantastic comic relief, while Raphael Wong as ‘Steady Eddie’ is a highlight who endears himself to the audience as he dreams that his childhood crush will finally see him in a romantic light.
Beyond the star power, each cast member brings a caliber that’s second to ‘nun’.
The musical, with an original score by Tony and 8-time Oscar winner Alan Menken, draws on Motown, soul, and disco influences, capturing the exuberant spirit of the 1970s. The simple yet effective set transports you seamlessly from vibrant nightclubs to the humble walls of Our Lady of Perpetual Sorrow Convent. Lighting plays a crucial role, casting ethereal glows that feel almost sacred and set the perfect church-like atmosphere, contrasting with the neon, flashing lights of the disco scene.
Authentic costume design completes the time-travel experience, with bright colours, Cuban heels, platform boots, flared trousers, and shoulder pads defining the era. The worlds of disco and devotion collide as the austerity of the traditional nun’s habit is reimagined in a dazzling array of head-to-toe rainbow sequins. Costume design shines especially for ‘Steady Eddie’, whose moment in the spotlight is enhanced by a series of rapid-fire, expertly executed quick-changes.
In the end, what makes Sister Act so memorable is its’ heart. It’s a story of unlikely friendships and finding light in even the darkest circumstances. Sisterhood truly can be found in the most unexpected places, reminding us that it is a bond that transcends any difference, and often, we are more alike than different, but also that our differences can be our strengths. Monsignor O’Hara of the convent said it best: ‘If you only see one Catholic mass this season, let it be this one.’
Sister Act is now playing at the Regent Theatre in Melbourne’s East Theatre District
For more details https://sisteractthemusical.com.au/
