‘Take Me to Heaven!’ Sister Act, Orchard Theatre, Darford 06.07.2023

Finally it was time to take my seat for my first musical viewing of the new year and what a FabUlous one to start with!

Sister Act, based on the 1992 film of the same name which starred the great Whoopi Goldberg. Disco diva Deloris’ life takes a surprising turn when she witnesses a murder carried out by her lover Curtis. Placed under protective custody she is hidden in the one place she shouldn’t be found – a convent! Although adapting to the life of a nun proves difficult she is encouraged to help the struggling choir, and in doing so she helps her fellow sisters find their true voices as she
unexpectedly rediscovers her own. 

Now this musical has a special place in my heart having performed an amateur version of it in 2015, I also got to see it in its past tour which starred Alexandra Burke. Without a doubt this musical is a crowd pleasure as there is nothing you can’t like about it, its just so much fun to start to finish – even those who haven’t seen the film can enjoy it! Part of this comes from the brand new soundtrack created by well known composer Alan Menken and lyrics by Glenn Slater it steers away from the film and brings a whole new take to a classic which hit after hit that will get your dancing in your seat – guaranteed! The story itself follows quite closely to the film production, except from some expertly brilliant changes that uplift you and have everyone chuckling.

But this show would not be what it is without its fabulous cast, leading the convent is Lesley Joseph as Mother Superior who excellently delivers a outstanding performance from the very start. Her solo scene and song ‘I Haven’t Got a Prayer’ was one of the highlights of the evening that had the audience eating out of the palm of her hand! Her reactions and comical moment were fantastic especially partnered with Graham MacDuff as Monsignor O’Hara during ‘Take Me to Heaven.’ Graham MacDuff again has a great skill in creating character that ensures he never goes missing on stage, from being the Monsignor to a drunken guy at a bar your eyes always seem to draw to him and what he is doing on stage – you just want to see more of him!

Taking the lead as the one and only Deloris Van Cartier is Sandra Marvin, in 2019 it was announced that Whoopi would be taking on the role once again, informing the press that there was never a specific age given to Deloris to not allow someone older that what had originally been played to portray this role. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic and schedules Whoopi was unable to play the role in the end and in London this was played by Beverley Knight. Sandra has taken Deloris on the road and does not disappoint! She had the voice, the presence and was just perfect for the role, she could slay a song but also show her warm heart that she had for her fellow sisters. Especially sweet Sister Mary Robert, Lizzie Bea who knows how to hit a note or two to wow the audience and along with her fellow Nuns when ever the choir performed you knew you were in for some fun and many laughs to enjoy this talented bunch!

Clive Rowe plays her love interest policemen Eddie Souther, I instantly fell in love his warm toned, soft voice that fitted complimented his solo ‘I Could be That Guy’ but also his innocence within the character made him a crowd favourite! On the other side is Curtis and his three henchmen TJ, Pablo and Joey played by Jeremy Secomb, Bradley Judge, and Damian Buhagiar, and Tom Hopcroft – they did not disappoint especially during ‘When I Find My Baby’ and ‘Lady in the Long Black Dress’ which had the audience roaring with laughs and cheers!

It would be a Sin to miss this show, if you haven’t had the opportunity yet to catch it. It is great for all ages, men and female and a wonderful night of entertainment that for sure is guaranteed! Such a feel good musical that leads you to not wanting it to finish and to go back for more!

Playing at the Orchard Theatre until Saturday 11th February, for all ticket information go here. It will then continue on its Uk Tour, for all dates and ticket info go here.

Why not also, give a read of Guest RoseReviewer Harri’s thoughts when she caught it at the Hammersmith Apollo – Click here!