Brisbane audiences have been blessed with a truly divine theatrical experience as Sister Act The Musical takes over the Lyric Theatre at QPAC until 15 March. This feel-good production is packed with heavenly energy, leaving the audience laughing, clapping, and smiling ear-to-ear from start to finish. With a perfect blend of comedy, soul, and show-stopping performances, it’s the ultimate musical comedy for all walks of life to enjoy.
The show is perfectly cast, with each performer bringing their A-game to the stage. Leading the charge is the sensational Casey Donovan as Deloris Van Cartier. With powerhouse vocals and infectious charisma, Donovan commands the stage with ease, balancing comedy and heartfelt moments with expert precision. Her chemistry with the nuns and her journey from nightclub singer to reluctant sisterhood leader is nothing short of thrilling. Her rendition of “Fabulous, Baby!” is a standout moment, capturing Deloris’s larger-than-life personality, while “Sister Act” delivers a deeply emotional punch, showcasing her vocal power and transformation.
Genevieve Lemon delivers a brilliant performance as Mother Superior, embodying the character’s exasperation and dry wit while also bringing touching moments of warmth and wisdom and some wonderful improv towards the crowd for the opening night. Her scenes with Deloris are some of the most engaging in the production, balancing the tension between tradition and change with finesse.
Rhonda Burchmore is a delight as Sister Mary Lazarus, proving once again that she is a comedic powerhouse. Her sharp one-liners and unexpected hip-hop flair bring endless laughs, while her presence adds a wonderful sense of fun and mischief to the convent, especially when running amuck when Curtis and his men breaking into the church. The nuns scatter and are able to take down Joey, TJ, and Pablo.
One of the standout performances of the night comes from Sophie Montague (Monty) as Sister Mary Robert. Sophie’s journey from shy and soft-spoken novice to a confident, powerhouse vocalist is simply thrilling to watch. The solo number “The Life I Never Led” is a breathtaking moment that earns one of the loudest applauses of the night, as Sophie’s character completely breaks free from the constraints of the convent.
Bianca Bruce lights up the stage as the ever-enthusiastic Sister Mary Patrick, bringing boundless energy and joy to every scene. Her comedic timing is spot-on, and her scenes with Deloris and the other sisters are pure joy.
Raphael Wong shines as Eddie Souther, the lovable cop with a heart of gold. His musical numbers are a highlight, and his transformation into the smooth, confident version of himself during one of his key numbers is a moment that has the audience cheering. His character arc brings a wonderful balance of humor and heart to the show.
Damien Bermingham delivered a compelling portrayal of Curtis Jackson on opening night, the suave yet menacing antagonist whose pursuit of Deloris adds tension and excitement to the narrative. Bermingham’s performance brings depth to the character, making him a formidable presence on stage.
Jordan Angelides embodies Monsignor O’Hara with warmth and humour, providing a delightful balance to the convent’s dynamics. His interactions with the nuns and Deloris are both endearing and entertaining, adding a layer of charm to the production.
Sally Bourne and Emma Powell deliver wonderfully charismatic performances as Sister Mary Martin-of-Tours and Sister Mary Theresa, respectively. Powell’s portrayal is infused with delightful eccentricity, bringing a lovable quirkiness to the convent, while Bourne delivers a perfect mix of wit and wisdom as the elder nun whose dry humour and occasional sass steal multiple scenes. Their contributions add to the heart and humour of the show, making the convent feel even more alive and dynamic.
Patrick Volpe (Pablo), Tom Struik (Joey), and James Bell (TJ) provide some of the show’s funniest slapstick moments, with their bumbling antics and over-the-top failed attempts at villainy bringing waves of laughter from the audience.
Additionally, the ensemble cast, including Kayla Carter, Gabriyel Thomas, Theodore Williams, Elenor Smith Adams, Cara Bessey, Melanie Bird, Simon Fairweather, Hollie James, and Jake Ameduri, all play a crucial role in bringing the world of Sister Act to life. Whether as devoted nuns, energetic singers, or lively club-goers, they keep the show bursting with energy, humour, and dazzling choreography and costumes.
Another unforgettable moment comes during the interval, when the nuns interact with the audience, handing out flyers to join their parish and doing the wave with the hyped-up Brisbane crowd. This clever bit of immersion only adds to the infectious fun of the evening, making it clear that this show is all about spreading joy.
From start to finish, Sister Act The Musical is a dazzling spectacle of song, dance, and comedy. The cast’s energy never falters, delivering 100% commitment in every scene. The show culminates in an electrifying finale that brings the audience to their feet for a well-earned standing ovation.
Brisbane has been waiting for a brilliant, soul-searching musical comedy like this, and Sister Act delivers in every possible way. Take your mum, aunty, dad, or anyone you know—this is a must-see production that will have you singing and smiling long after you leave the theatre!
TICKETS
Now playing at Lyric Theatre, QPAC
All images by Daniel Boud.
The Fame Reporter 