Sister Act – Regent Theatre, Stoke

Sister Act the musical tells the much-loved story of the 1992 Whoopi Goldberg film of the same name. Many people young and old (including myself) adore this full of fun film. This was apparent as soon as you entered the auditorium with some audience members choosing to don their habits and wimples to join in the fun!

The stage show is just as fun, just as bright and just as funny as the film it oozes joy from the get-go and continues building this throughout.

On arriving at the theatre, the 70s era was alive with disco balls, amazing music and bright coloured lights. You feel as though you’ve stepped into a Time Machine as soon as you enter the auditorium.

The music in the show is one of the catchiest theatrical scores around, I feel, from ‘Fabulous Baby’ to ‘Raise Your Voice.’ I challenge anyone to leave the theatre and not have at least one of the songs on a constant loop in your head. However, some die-hard fans maybe disappointed to hear those iconic songs like ‘I will follow him’ don’t feature in the stage show but the happiness the new score brings I think you’ll forgive that very quickly.

Dolores van Carter played by Landi Oshinowo is a beacon of light on the stage. You’re instantly drawn to her and rightly so. She commands attention and it’s so needed for this role. She was born to lead a show and she was born to lead THIS show.

Sister Mary Robert played by Lizzie Bea had an adorable air of innocence surrounding her. Her vocals are undeniable. I was actually left with my jaw wide open when she finished ‘The Life I Never Had. ‘It was effortless from start to end.

The choral group of nuns, excuse the pun, sound heavenly. The harmonies are musical perfection. The whole musical direction of the show deserves a standing ovation of its own. I could write a review on how perfect the music was!

Lesley Joseph as Mother Superior was Superior casting. She is perfectly cast in this role. Her comedy timing is impeccable.

Eddie played by Alfie Parker is a ray of human sunshine. He gives a charming performance that you can’t help but instantly fall for. You’re rooting for him from the moment he opens his mouth.

A definite highlight of the show came from Curtis and his men. Every song they were in was just hilarious. They gave the essence of a comedy tribute band of Frankie Valli and the Four seasons and it’s frankly one of the funniest things I’ve seen on stage for a long long time.

I loved the costume design in the show especially the sequinned finale costumes. They were so vivid and sparkled just as much as the disco ball above. They matched the joy radiating off both the actors on stage and the audience in their seats.

Every aspect of this show just shines. It’s feel-good fun with so much heart and soul. I’d urge everyone to go and watch just to leave with the biggest smile of your face. What can I say the show is ‘Fabulous Baby!’

Reviewer: Leanne Rushton

Reviewed: 25th September 2023

North West End UK Rating: