Review: SISTER ACT at ASB Waterfront Auckland

Sister Act is a class act at the ASB Waterfront Theatre Auckland.

'Get thee to a nunnery' now has a whole new meaning after seeing Sister Act at the ASB Waterfront Theatre on Saturday night.

The audience loved it, their energetic clapping and 'wa-hoos' said it all, with most jumping to their feet during the final number.

'I'm part of one terrific sister act.' These lyrics, sung by leading lady Deloris Van Cartier (Keshia Tunks) sum up the whole show aptly.

The performers are supreme in their style and delivery of this adaptation of the 1992 Whoopi Goldberg film. They're energetic, hilarious, thoroughly entertaining and the music is literally divine.

Keshia Tunks has a huge role as Deloris. She doesn't miss a beat with her comedic timing and rich voice. That girl's got swag. And endless energy.

Mother Superior (Helen Medlyn) gave the audience something very special with her solo 'I Haven't got a Prayer" and she's also very funny.

The music is fabulous; totally memorable; appropriate in genre and style.

Keith Marr in the role of clutzy-cop with a heart-of-gold Eddie Souther, treated us not only to his superb voice but his acting and dancing was par excellence. Having played the role in the Australiasan premier in New Plymouth last year Marr was a stand out amongst standouts.

Making his appearance on stage in Auckland after spending 25 years appearing on the West End and across Europe is Matthew Cutts in the role of Curtis Jackson. Cutts last appeared on NZ stage when his School Cert results came out. Not sure what he passed with but his performance last night was without doubt a top Excellence. When I find my Baby was an audience favourite.

The nuns were the spirit of the show appearing initially as a cloistered cacophony until Deloris comes along and sorts them out. They then fill the stage as a visual delight in sparkly habits and grab the audience with their powerhouse voices and moves performed only as unleashed nuns can. Take me to Heaven will be one of the songs stuck in your head well after you've seen this show. And see it you must.

Each sister has a unique and dynamic character that gives the audience plenty of variety. When they come together in song and dance they sing and gyrate with a powerful gospel sass. Each and every one of them totally brilliant. Bless 'em all.

The set and costumes are stunning. Bravo to the clever John Harding (set and props) and Lesley Burkes-Harding (costumes). I was taken by their cleverness and style. Well done to Patrick Landrigan and the Consortium team for putting it all together.

It's funnier than the film and the visuals and singing are glitzier and sassier. The message of humanity and the divine adds an 'awwww' moment towards the end.

Congratulations to Director David Adkins, Music Director Zac Johns and Choreographer Rhonda Daverne for bringing together the magic on stage.

This is a mass that you don't wanna miss.

Sister Act
ASB Waterfront Theatre, Auckland
25 November - 16 December
Bookings: http://www.ticketmaster.co.nz/sister-act-asb-waterfront-theatre-auckland-nz/venueartist/295678/716771

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