Review: SISTER ACT at MAINSTAGE IRVING - LAS COLINAS

The Irving Arts Center opens its 2017-2018 season with a show that is larger than life. SISTER ACT is a big, fun, family-friendly musical about a singer who is forced to masquerade as a nun while waiting to testify against her no good ex-boyfriend. Directed and choreographed by Michael Serrecchia, this show is fresh, funny, and definitely worth a trip to MainStage Irving - Las Colinas.

Cherish Robinson stars as Deloris Van Cartier - and her performance takes the audience to heaven. Robinson's vocals are killer, and the energy she delivers to each scene is electric. Alongside her, the nuns in this show are truly perfection. Susan Metzger (Mother Superior) delivers a crisp and clean performance that would make Pope Francis proud. Gena Loe (Sister Mary Lazarus) keeps the audience laughing with her funky dance moves and goofy vibe. And Claire DeJean (Sister Mary Robert) demonstrates undeniable skill in her performance as the youngest nun in the convent. While leading men Branden Bailey (Eddie) and Jamall Houston (Curtis) shine during ensemble numbers, their solos are a bit forgettable when compared to the power and technique demonstrated by the ladies of the show. Overall, each member of the cast has something to be proud of - many well-rounded performances keep the audience engaged in every scene.

In addition to flawless female vocals, viewers will take note of a versatile set, clever costumes (you can never give a nun too many sequins), and impressive, well-executed choreography. Opening night prop snafus were quickly covered by the cast, but the spotlights were out of control - and not in a fun way. Shaky spots distracted from more than one monologue and solo during the show. The rest of the lighting cues seemed to work as intended though, so audiences can expect to see the actors and set clearly in most scenes.

This show is a huge undertaking, and patrons will not be disappointed with the result. So if you are in search of a musical that will speak to your soul, grab your family and friends (don't forget your sisters) and head to SISTER ACT at Mainstage Irving - Las Colinas! Show runs through November 18th, with tickets starting at $24. http://www.irvingtheatre.org/index.html

To post a comment, you must register and login.