Review: Sister Act the Musical
Sister Act the Musical is based on the much loved 1992 film that starred Whoopi Goldberg. Where the stage version differs is in the music: while the film featured well-known Motown and R&B hits like Mary Wells’ My Guy, the musical boasts an original score. And, personally, I think the new songs are even better.
Suffolk is lucky to have a wealth of talented amateur musical theatre groups, and one of the newer names on the scene is The Riverside Musical Theatre Company. Originally formed in 2015 for a one-off production celebrating the centenary of Woodbridge’s Riverside Theatre, the group proved such a hit that producer Mike Warden was urged to continue – and how could he say no?
At the heart of the story is Deloris Van Cartier, a bold and brassy nightclub singer who accidentally witnesses a murder. To keep her safe, the police hide her in the most unlikely place – a convent. Set in the 1970s, the show is filled with era-defining fashion, from big hair and flares to sequins galore. The music follows suit, with infectious disco-inspired numbers that bring the decade to life.
What follows is a joyful, feel-good tale. The nuns don’t quite know what to make of Deloris at first, but over time, they bond through a shared love of music.
This production boasts a fantastic cast, with not a weak link in sight. Natasha Stevenson shines as Deloris, delivering powerhouse vocals that wouldn’t be out of place on any professional stage. Samantha De Vita is equally compelling as the stern-but-sensitive Mother Superior, and their duet in the second half is a real standout moment (incidentally Samantha also directed the show).
Of course, strong leads are expected – but the entire ensemble, supported by a live orchestra, deserves praise for a slick, energetic, and thoroughly entertaining show.
The Riverside Musical Theatre Company may still be relatively new, but on the strength of this production, I pray that they will be gracing Suffolk stages for many years to come.
• Review Mark Keable, Ipswich24 Magazine
Sister Act – The Musical runs at The Riverside Theatre, Woodbridge until 14th June 2025.
Box office: 01394 382174