If you were wondering what to do for fun this weekend, we think we might have found the answer. As a cinematic musical, Sister Act (1992) is frequently screened on TV, such is the popular appeal of its energetic narrative and soundtrack which combines 60s pop hits with funky remixes of traditional choral pieces. Songs such as My Guy (My God), I Will Follow Him, and the particularly peppy Oh Maria help give the film its heart-warming, feel good factor.
Only 35 companies nationwide have been chosen to perform this staging of Sister Act in the UK. The fact that the Blackpool and Fylde Light Opera Company was chosen to perform it in Lancashire is testament to their talent. That makes this production a premiere for Blackpool.
Phil Chapman of Blackpool and Fylde Light Opera Company said: “BFLOC were planning to perform Jekyll and Hyde at the Grand Theatre. After a phone call from Josef Weinberger Ltd, the theatre and music publisher, the company were privileged to be asked to perform Sister Act the Musical, as one of only 35 companies nationwide.”
Ruth Eastwood, CEO of the Grand Theatre, commented: “That the Blackpool and Fylde Light Opera Company were given the rights to perform this musical is testament to the talent we have on the Fylde Coast, and a great opportunity to showcase a new show in our town.”
Devotees of the film will need no explanation of the plot. The musical is an adaptation of the original film. It tells the story of an extrovert nightclub performer, Deloris Van Cartier. Delores, who was once crowned Lady Fabulous, ends up hiding in a convent of Poor Clares, after seeing her gangster boyfriend commit a shooting. She doesn’t take easily to convent life but the nuns are keen to enlist her musical talents to bring new life to their flagging choir. The results are unconventional and bring a whole new congregation into the church pews. But all the attention proves dangerous for a woman who is trying to stay undercover…
The original cast comprised Whoopi Goldberg in the leading role with a sterling supporting cast which included Maggie Smith and Harvey Keitel. On stage, Delores has been played by Patina Miller and Raven-Symoné. With over 60 years and 80-plus productions behind them, as well as a string of awards from the National Operatic and Dramatic Association, the Blackpool and Fylde Light Opera Company should be more than up to the task of following those performances.
This ultimate feel-good show promises to provide a fun-filled evening for all ages. It will be performed at The Grand Theatre from Wednesday 28 to Saturday 31 May. Book your tickets at the box office on Church Street, by phoning 01253 290190 or by visiting the website.
Show Comments (1)
Sister Act
Thank you for this article and the infos you provide. I saw Sister Act in Germany and have to say, i listened to very good music, a well known fantastic story and all had that kind of humour i like. You will notice, that Whoopie Goldberg was involved when creating the musical (co-producer for the german musical too). So nearly 3 hours of fun and good music lets you go home from Sister Act with a deep feeling of easy living.