The 1992 film Sister Act was an absolute hit and still has a warm place in the hearts of many, but now it’s making a comeback on stage with an all-singing, all-dancing cast filled with even more laughter and musical numbers. Currently being performed at the Manchester Palace Theatre, ahead of the Sister Act musical production touring the length and breadth of the country, Mancs can see sisters doing it for themselves as they break it down on the chapel floor and belt out catchy songs that’ll have you swaying in your seat.
Based on the iconic movie, this sparkling tribute to the universal power of friendship, sisterhood and music tells the hilarious story of the disco diva whose life takes a surprising turn when she witnesses a murder.
Under protective custody she is hidden in the one place she won’t be found – a convent! Disguised as a nun and under the suspicious watch of Mother Superior, Deloris helps her fellow sisters find their voices as she unexpectedly rediscovers her own.
Coronation Street and I’m A Celebrity… star Sue Cleaver heads up the cast this time as Mother Superior, a role lovingly taken on by legends including Jennifer Saunders and Maggie Smith alike, putting in a truly convincing performance. Sue plays the role with a loving wit, whilst maintaining the haughty, ‘holier than thou’ personality the character is known for, and of course went down a storm with her home crowd in Manchester.
West End star Landi Oshinowo holds her own as Deloris Van Cartier, everyone’s favourite nun on the run, with incredible vocals and an endearing performance, with enough reference to Whoopi Goldberg‘s iconic 1992 version, but plenty of unique quirks and a heck of a stage presence.
Of course, Sister Act would be nothing without the chorus of nuns, and special props go to Eloise Runnette and Isabel Canning as Sisters Mary Robert and Mary Patrick, as their performances bring a crucial sense of sisterhood and pure loveliness to the plot. Alfie Parker also steals the show as policeman Eddie Souther, giving an incredible comedic performance with an inherent purity the character is known for.
We must also celebrate the costume department on the show, especially when it comes to the finale. A group of singing nuns in multicoloured, fully sequined habits (full nun get-up) is something we never thought we’d see…
Sister Act is playing at Manchester Palace Theatre until Saturday 30 March, and you can find tickets to the musical here.