Sister Act, EPMS - Chelmsford

Guest Reviewer: Abigail Robinson

Sister Act is one of those classic musicals everyone knows and loves, especially thanks to the classic1992 Film. It’s got a feel-good story and brilliant music by Alan Menken  (the genius behind Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid, Pocahontas, and Newsies), so there’s loads to enjoy from the start.

Taking on the role of Deloris Van Cartier — made famous by Whoopi Goldberg — is no small task, but Grace Ward really throws herself into it. She brings loads of personality to the role, moves brilliantly, and her singing’s not bad either. Her version of Sister Act was definitely a standout moment.

Playing opposite her as Sweaty Eddie, the slightly awkward but lovable policeman, Sam Perren was great fun to watch. He’s got a strong voice and just the right amount of nerdy charm to make the character work. His number I Could Be That Guy, backed by the “down and outs” chorus, was a real highlight — especially with the choreography shifting into full-on 70s funk as it built. It looked fantastic.

Lorraine Ely as Mother Superior was excellent — really strong on stage and a joy to watch. She worked nicely alongside Michael Pearce’s Monsignor, who brought a sweet, slightly excitable energy that balanced her perfectly.

Alan Edwards made a convincing, slightly menacing Curtis, backed up by his trio of thugs: Stuart Turnbull as Joey, Philip Spurgeon as Pablo, with a great Hispanic flair, and Lee Downes as TJ — who honestly stole pretty much every scene he was in.

The three main nuns were also spot on. Kate Alliston’s Mary Patrick was full of energy and comedy, Jess Webster’s Mary Roberts was sweet and confident vocally, and Heidi Merriman was brilliant as the tough nun who discovers her inner rapper. The three of them worked together so naturally.

And you can’t forget the chorus of nuns — they truly made the show. Every performer brought strong characterisation, and the choreography was tight, energetic, and impressively polished. The Act One finale was a standout moment and a clear highlight of the entire production. Credit to director Nikki Mundell-Poole, whose vision clearly paid off and gave the society a production to be truly proud of.

All in all, the audience loved it, as it was such a fun show to watch. If there are any tickets left for the remaining shows, it’s definitely worth grabbing them!