Sister Act the Musical premiered in Australia last year and continues to bring rainbow coloured joy to audiences around the country. The Brisbane opening night crowd were enthusiastic and full of love for the musical’s leads including Casey Donovan in her first starring role. She is joined by theatre veterans Rhonda Burchmore as Sister Mary Lazarus and Genevieve Lemon as Mother Superior alongside a terrifically talented cast.
This latest version is by the UK’s Jamie Wilson Productions, who have teamed up for the first time with John Frost to bring it to our shores. Originally a 2020 production with Whoopi Goldberg in the lead role (almost 30 years after starring in the beloved 1992 film), it enjoyed one day of rehearsals before the pandemic shut it down. After a false start in 2021, it finally got on its feet the following year with Goldberg no longer attached.
The musical is set in Philly in the ’70s and sees nightclub singer Deloris Van Cartier dating a gangster named Curtis Jackson. When she accidentally witnesses a hit, she becomes his target. Her old school pal, local cop ‘Steady’ Eddie, offers to hide her inside a convent, the last place anyone would think to find her. While there, the Mother Superior butts heads with Deloris’ sinful ways and gives her the job of helping out the choir, who are diabolically bad singers, by way of punishment. The rest is musical history.
Marketed as pure joy, which of course it is, I was caught out, yet again, with no tissues, surprised by how many times the show made me cry. Tears of joy at the absolute Act One showstopper, ‘Raise Your Voice,’ which on opening night, was phenomenal. But there are plenty of moments of emotion throughout, so plan accordingly! It is a musical after all.
Each performer came into their own when it was called for; as such no one tried to steal the show. With a cast full of characters, they all had moments where they shone.
As Deloris, Casey Donovan proved that she is made for the stage. Her voice is big, beautiful and sexy, and I’m sure this won’t be her last starring role. Her Act Two solo, the title song ‘Sister Act,’ is an emotional highlight.
As Mother Superior, Genevieve Lemon delivered her one liners to perfection. Her solo scene, which includes the song ‘I Haven’t Got A Prayer,’ is a delight, and included an unexpected catcall from the crowd. Lemon handled it like an absolute pro, turning it into a memorable opening night moment.
As Sister Mary Lazarus, Rhonda Burchmore was utterly likeable and turned every line into a let loose moment. Her performance was fearless and memorable, and a whole new generation now knows who she is.
As Sister Mary Patrick, Bianca Bruce was suitably peppy, nutty and lovable, in the role that put Kathy Najimy on the map. The ensemble of nuns worked together beautifully and were a thoroughly entertaining group. Their number, ‘Bless This Show,’ was particularly excellent.
The emotional heart of the piece belongs to Sister Mary Robert, the young postulant, played by newcomer and rising star Sophie Montague. This show would surely have been missing something without Sophie in this role. Sophie’s voice is outstanding, and the Act Two solo, ‘The Life I Never Led,’ is gut wrenching. Sophie is an inspiration to young people wanting to pursue a career in musical theatre. You can read more about Sophie’s journey to Sister Act in our feature article.
On opening night Curtis Jackson was played by Damien Bermingham and he showed exactly why he understudies this role. He was suitably unlikeable and shone in his solo ‘When I Find My Baby.’ He was ably supported by his three henchmen (James Bell, Tom Struik and on opening night Patrick Volpe) who looked the part in their seedy ’70s attire. Their trio dancing was hilarious.
As Eddie Souther, Raphael Wong was an adorable ‘nice guy.’ He brought the house down with his solo, ‘I Could Be That Guy,’ complete with clever quick costume reveals. It is unsurprising to learn he is a classical crossover artist, with a rich lower register and an impressive vocal range.
Sets and costumes designed by Morgan Large can best be described as absolute eye candy. The full company finale, ‘Spread the Love Around,’ also spread around the colour and the sparkle. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a company in more glittery attire, and I loved it. Lighting designs by Tim Mitchell brought the stained glass window-like frame to life, while sound designs by Tom Marshall kept us suitably exhilarated.
Sister Act The Musical is a joyous, high-energy celebration of friendship, faith, and finding your voice. With its uplifting music and infectious energy, it’s a feel-good show that will leave audiences laughing and singing along. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a complete first timer, Sister Act the Musical is an unmissable delight. Sometimes, a little divine intervention and a lot of soul can change everything.
Sister Act the Musical is on now until 15 March at the Lyric Theatre, QPAC.
The Australian tour then transfers to Adelaide from 22 March and wraps up in Perth from 26 April 2025.
Tickets: https://qpac.com.au/whats-on/2025/sister-act
Website: https://sisteractthemusical.com.au/
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/sisteractmusicalau/
Photo credits: Daniel Boud
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