Musical Theatre Dunedin’s production of Sister Act
Thursday, May 14
Review by Sam Henderson.
Musical Theatre Dunedin has unleashed a surge of 1970s soul with its vibrant production of Sister Act. Featuring a high-energy original score by Alan Menken and lyrics by Glen Slater, the musical lights up Mosgiel’s Coronation Hall.
Based on the hit film, the story follows Deloris Van Cartier, an aspiring disco diva who inadvertently witnesses a crime. While trying to lay low in a convent, Deloris takes charge of the institution’s struggling choir, transforming them into a powerhouse of soul and sass.
Jess Ruck-Nu'u brings a fun and fiery energy to Deloris, electrifying the stage whenever she appears. Alethea Chittenden matches her brilliance as Mother Superior, delivering an incredible performance with a soaring voice that captures deep emotion. She expertly handles the difficult task of portraying a disapproving figure who dislikes the freedom sparked by Deloris, before unfreezing to embrace her.
The show is best when the plot gets out of the way to let the cast sing, the stage bursting with vigour when the ensemble of nuns leap out in full volume for their rendition of Take Me to Heaven.
Jane Craigie-Read is bubbling with cheer as Sister Mary Patrick. Mason Bouzaid delivers a vulnerable, charming I Could Be That Guy before stealing the scene with his tender serenade Fabulous, Baby.
Grant Paris as Joey, Jack Hollis-Wilson as TJ and Joseph Lydiate as Pablo bring the house down with a hilarious rendering of Lady in the Long Black Dress.
The staging is visually bright, leaning into the vibrant aesthetics of its 1970s setting. Choreographer Olivia Larkins creates simple but highly effective moves that perfectly reflect the era and elevate the ensemble. Musical director Sam van Betuw leads a spirited live orchestra, ensuring the pace remains punchy and exuberant.
The show's momentum occasionally lags between scenes due to pauses required to move set elements that perhaps could be simplified. While the tempo could be tightened, Musical Theatre Dunedin has delivered a well-crafted, bright and breezy production that hits all the right notes for an upbeat evening.
The show continues until Friday, May 23.
