Sister Act At Theatre Royal, Plymouth Review

Reviewed by Linda Curtain

Spending the evening with a group of singing and dancing nuns can only mean one thing – the long awaited return of the musical Sister Act – and by the reaction of last night audience at the opening night, it is sure to herald an amazing week at the theatre.

Sister Act was another of the ‘Covid casualties’ being first scheduled for 2020 but having to be put on hold. Over two years later – and with some inevitable cast changes – Sister Act opened this year with outstanding reviews and with what I witnessed last evening the wait was definitely worth it!

This is certainly another high class production for the Theatre Royal Plymouth which always secures such top rate and varied shows. Situated on the main Royal Parade in Plymouth, this theatre is easy to access by car or public transport. There are several nearby car parks, but regular theatre goers may need to be aware of some recent parking charge changes in some of these car parks.

When arriving at the theatre, tickets were scanned at the door and the front of house staff happily answered any questions and directed you to your seats. As expected with such a well known show, the theatre was extremely busy with people enjoying drinks in the bars and coffee shop as they awaited the show.

On entering the auditorium, the 70’s vibe was immediately evident with music playing from the era and a disco ball projecting lights all around.

Set in Philadelphia in the late 70’s, Sister Act is basically the story of Deloris Van Cartier – a gangsters moll and wannabe cabaret singer – who after witnessing her boyfriend Curtis Jackson (played by Jeremy Secomb) shooting a man, was sent to hide in a run-down convent on the pretext of being a nun. Such a flamboyant character as Deloris finds the restrictions of convent life very difficult – even escaping at one point to attend the local night club! Through her love of music though Deloris becomes accepted by the other nuns and eventually turns the fortune of the convent around.

It was a bit disappointing that Leslie Joseph – who was the lead character of mother Superior for much of the tour – is not taking the role in Plymouth, but her understudy – Lori Haley Fox – was amazing in the role. Her comic timing was great as was her ‘holy demeanour’ throughout as she tried to cope with Deloris. They worked so well together and the banter between them was great.

As expected, the nuns stole the show with their solidarity and individuality shining through. Sister Mary Robert – played by Lizzie Bea – emerged from a hesitant, quietly spoken postulant to a strong character within the convent portraying her beliefs and her wonderful singing voice to everyone.

Eddie Souther – steady Eddie – was also played by an understudy last evening Graham Macduff. He was a great character as the cop who had a crush on Deloris and was determined to keep her safe.

Sandra Marvin as Deloris was outstanding with an amazing voice belting out the iconic songs. Her charisma and personality lit up the stage.

From the toe-tapping opening to the grand finale, the show was a riot of colour and energy. The stage setting was great especially the stained window effect which was constantly changing colour and pattern. Also, a stage full of nuns in rainbow sequinned habits is not something you see everyday!!!

What more can I say – an amazing production showing the power of sisterhood. Totally ‘Fabulous Baby’!

Rating: 5/5

Tickets cost from £37

Sister Act is at the Theatre Royal Plymouth until 10th December 2022
For more information or to book tickets visit www.theatreroyal.com.