Sister Act review

If you haven’t yet caught Sister Act at Storyhouse, let me save you the trouble of reading the program: just go see it. Direct from the West End, this musical has everything you didn’tknow you needed in a show – nuns, gangsters, and an unexpected love story that will leaveyou scratching your head and tapping your feet at the same time.

First off, let’s talk about Eddie, played by Alfie Parker. If you thought peeling off one uniform was a feat, wait until you see him whip off not two, but three outfits during “I Could Be That Guy”. That’s right, it was a triple costume change as smooth as the silk lining in his jacket. His solo was a showstopper – the music and lyrics came together so well. Alfie nailed every note, and the costume design had me reconsidering my own wardrobe choices (shout out to the glitzed-up outfits at the end of the show). Eddie concluded with a crescendo that left the audience in awe. Now. The number performed by the gangsters. It was like a scene out of a comedy caper, complete with synchronised movements and one-liners that had the audience chuckling. Just as I was about to zone out, thinking I’ve seen this trope of the bad guy and his funny minions a million times, they threw in enough humour to keep it fresh, and skilled choreography that kept my eyes fixed to the stage. Hats off to the writers for making attempted murder funny. Particularly loved the line “I’ll disembowel that girl” – every syllable went really well with the Disney-esque melodies. Really tickled me.

And let’s not forget the sisters. Right before the interval, they sang their hearts out in a marathon vocal performance that seemed to gain strength with each note. These nuns didn’t just sing – they belted, crooned, and harmonised in a way that made you forget how long you’d been sitting. Their voices were so powerful, I half expected the projected stained glass windows to shatter. Special mention to the sister with the croaky voice. Whoever plays her deserves a medal – or at least a lozenge sponsorship. She brought just the right amount of comedic ttiming and charm, making every scene she’s in an absolute delight – alongside the very chirpy nun who stays comical and animated throughout. And of course, the impressive Eloise Runnette as Sister Mary Robert, who hit notes so high I got goose bumps. And her number The Life I Never Led” was profound and memorable, and incredibly well performed.

Last but not least, Wendi Peters and Landi Oshinowo absolutely smashed it. Their performances were compelling and effortless. With a new depth, passion, and one hell of a voice, Landi made the character of Deloris her own. All in all, Sister Act at Storyhouse is a rollicking good time. It’s wonderfully comedic in all the right moments and even manages to throw in a bit of unexpected drama. If you’re looking for a night out that promises laughter, music, and a bit of heart-warming romance, this is your show. Just don’t be surprised if you find yourself humming “Take Me to Heaven” all the way home.

https://www.storyhouse.com/whats-on/sister-act/

Thanks to our reviewer Molly

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