We reviewed the current production of 'Sister Act' earlier in its run. This review is an updated version of a previously published one.
Fresh from its London run and just as the second big-screen sequel is announced, Sister Act has made a divine return to the West Midlands.
The five-time tony-nominated show is based on the 1992 movie starring Whoopi Goldberg, and tells the hilarious story of Deloris Van Cartier - a 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. A sparkling tribute to the universal power of friendship, sisterhood and music.
This production is a slight reimagining of the previous West End and touring run's, but remains fairly true to the films original plot. What's important to point out is that this isn't the film on stage - Sister Act borrows the plot, the surroundings and the characters but delivers a predominantly new soundtrack, created by Alan Menken, which is almost certainly one of the best around.
Sandra Marvin takes on the role of Deloris Van Cartier, a part which has attracted a good number of diva's in its time - from Alexandra Burke to Beverley Knight, and of course Whoopi herself. From start to finish, Marvin is an absolute joy to watch. Seemingly having settled right into proceedings, Marvin was good back in October but has undeniably gotten even better since then.
She brings a sass and a humour to the role which is lapped up by the Wolverhampton crowd and, let’s not make light of this, Deloris is a vocally demanding role.
However Marvin grabs her by the horns, proving why she's a star from the first moment she steps on stage.
Its important to point out that Marvin also leads an immensely talented cast, with every actor on stage this evening giving their all. Lesley Joseph takes the (perfectly cast) role of Mother Superior, a part which was immortalised by Maggie Smith in the film.
Joseph certainly harks back to Smith’s characterisation and has the most exceptional comedic pedigree. Part of British acting royalty, the love for Joseph was palpable from the moment she entered the stage and she won the hearts of the audience instantly.
However, Joseph brings a new spin to the character, drawing on elements of Smith's portrayal but without becoming a pastiche - something which re-cemented our love for this icon. Joseph is an icon and one the audience loves.
That's something echoed in Lizzie Bea's exceptional take on Sister Mary Robert - the character who has the biggest vocal transformation in the show, and who was played by one of the theatre world's biggest rising stars. Bea's vocals are simply outstanding and her rendition of The Life I Never Led was easily the best version, both technically and emotionally, that exists.
Special mention should also go to Alfie Parker who is superb as Eddie Souther - bringing the perfect balance of vulnerability and confidence, Parker had the audience in his hand from the get go.
Understandably, it received one of the biggest eruptions of applause all night - something which was more than justified.
Sister Act is playing at Wolverhampton Grand until Saturday 10th June. For more information, or to get your tickets, head online to grandtheatre.co.uk.
