Sister Act - COS, Jan 2016 - NODA review

A cast of over 50 people in this production with obviously more ladies, ranging from Deloris Van Cartier, Mother Superior, Nuns, Chorus Ladies and Dancers all having a ball from start to finish.

Rather less gentlemen, but  all so well cast, from Monsignor O’ Hara through to “Sweaty Eddie” , Curtis and his gang of the usual suspects, all giving their all in a variety of characters in this terrific production.

Newcomer to the society in the lead role was Chichi Armstrong as Deloris Van Cartier in a role made to measure for Chichi.The strength of her singing voice was remarkable, and the character became so believable and real in her superb all round performance.

Barbara Ryan as Mother Superior brought a quiet dignity to the part and sung beautifully.

Many of the Sisters had such a variety of characters, from lovely Sister Mary Patrick played so well by Amanda Powell who was so effervescent in this role, and the rather “kookie” Sister Mary Lazarus with Barbara Scully, who gave us an off beat quirky Sister, and also Sister Mary Roberts played by Helen McCraw with a lovely voice and a great range, played sympathetically as a younger Sister not totally sure of her calling.

David Rutter as “Sweaty Eddie” a rather unfortunate name for a kind. pleasant police officer, was just right in the part and always sings so well.A confident performance from David.

Michael Mundell-Poole played Curtis ex boy friend of Deloris and top guy in the selection of dodgy characters working for him.I liked Michael in this part very much,one of the best characters he has played, and the other three fall guys of TJ,Joey and Pablo with Connor Pratchett, Jonathan Davis and Will Mungford were first class.

Instant reaction from the audience was that of laughter and enjoyment with some really funny routines and slick timing Terrific fun! Loved the clothes as well really hippy!

John Enfield, a seasoned performer in the role of  Monsignor O’Hara with a happy jolly feel to his part looked good.Long may you continue to be part of the society John.

The singing was exceptionally good with the ladies, all really singing with great conviction and holding the harmonies beautifully in some choral singing (often jazzed up) which has to be spot on and balanced. Neil as always worked his magic in getting the most out of all on the stage.

The change of scenes was a marathon for the stage crew who worked so hard quickly moving very heavy sets and furniture.Well done to you all.

The scenery was spectacular and the costumes were amazing, especially the sparkly ever changing costumes of the Sisters.

The Finale “Raise Your Voice” with the backdrop of a beautlful Cathedral Window and marvellous lighting almost took your breath away and had the audience cheering and enjoying the spectacle of another superb show from this talented company.

Directed by Nikki Mundell –Poole in her debut with the society as Artistic Director, assisted by Leanne Fincham, with Neil Somerville as Musical Director, this was a formidable team and many congratulations to you all for creating a stunning show.