Sister Act (2024) UK Tour
Sister Act
Bournemouth Pavilion
(Review Complete)
"A captivating, feel-good show for all the family to enjoy!"
Review
With Sister Act being one of my favourite films, and Whoopi Goldberg being one of my favourite actresses, I felt this show had a lot to live up to, but it did not disappoint. From the house lights going down, to the first bars of music from the orchestra and the stage lights coming up, we could tell we were in for a real treat.
The lead role of Deloris Van Cartier was played brilliantly by Landi Oshinowo. She captured not only the mannerisms and characteristics of Deloris perfectly, but the singing too. Her performance was fabulous with the comedic nuances and timings making the performance exactly what it needed to be. I can’t imagine a better person for the role.
It wasn’t just Landi who was a perfect fit for the show. She was joined by an incredible cast. I’d particularly like to highlight, Isabel Canning who played sister Mary Patrick, Julie Stark who played sister Mary Lazarus, and Eloise Runnette who played sister Mary Robert. The roles of the Sisters were cast perfectly and the growing relationship between these characters was wonderful to watch and hosted some very funny moments. When the nuns became the choir reaching their full potential, I realised this was the moment I had been most waiting for. I can’t lie, when they sang ‘Raise Your Voice’, the vocals blew the roof off and I literally had goosebumps. The strength of their voices, harmonies, energy and passion absolutely shone through and I couldn’t stop myself from smiling and jigging along in my seat. To be honest, I found myself smiling every time Deloris and the nuns sang together.
Another performance well worth a mention was that of Alfie Parker who played the part of Eddie Souther (aka Steady Eddie). His affectionate performance as the bumbling cop and ‘love interest’ of a younger Deloris was a joyful and comedic portrayal which was wonderful to see and his moment of disco magic during the song ‘I Could Be That Guy’ was such a dynamic and fun moment in the show, you couldn’t help but root for the guy!
The part of TJ (Curtis’ nephew) was played by an understudy, Harvey Ebbage. He was made for the role and I was enamoured with his performance which was both quirky and funny and brilliantly backed with the two other accomplices; Joey, played by Callum Martin and Pablo, played by Michalis Antoniou. These three men complimented each other perfectly and had us all in awe (and laughter) at their fantastic harmonies and dance routines.
As amazing as all the cast were (and if I could mention them all, I would), the show wouldn’t be what it was without the people behind the scenes.
The orchestra was incredible thanks to the fabulous musical director, Tom Slade. I would like to say at this point, that if you were wanting to hear the songs from the film, you may be disappointed. However, the show contains an original score by Alan Menken and lyrics by Glenn Slater, which is sensational and every bit as enjoyable.
The set and costumes were absolutely stunning and were the mastermind of Morgan Large. The costumes of the finale, along with the song, were an absolute spectacle to behold.
In short, Sister Act was most definitely an amazing show and thoroughly deserving of the standing ovation that it received.
Reviewers: Sally and Lucas Cooper
We are Gifted tickets so that in return we may give an honest review. All comments are those of the reviewer and theirs alone.