Hallelujah! The sun is shining and so are these nuns – as York Light truly bring the heat in Nunsense: The Mega-Musical.
And, this musical is certainly mega; as Sister Act meets standup, it is clear how this Dan Goggin classic became one of the longest running off-Broadway shows, even with its entirely bonkers plot.
So here it is, bringing The Little Sisters of Hoboken to the heart of York, where they desperately need to raise funds so they can bury their dearly departed sisters, following a deathly sacrilegious soup incident… see, I did warn you it was bonkers!
Nunsense: The Mega-Musical is at Theatre@41, Monkgate, from Wednesday 26 June to Saturday 6 July.
This spectacular showcase was packed with pacy dialogue, audacious innuendos and delightfully cheesy choreography courtesy of Rachael Whitehead – forget prayer hands, jazz hands were out in full force! Accompanying this composition were exceptional vocals; despite an initial sound imbalance resulting in a lack of clarity, the cast’s energy and enthusiasm was unwavering.
As we entered the theatre, there was a momentary doubt as to which musical we had in store, as a Grease banner was hung, a jukebox stood proud and a bar looked open for business. However, we soon found ourselves in the heart of this fascinating fundraiser, ready to watch our soulful sisters let their habits loose for one night only.
I find it imperative to give credit to this tireless cast, crew, band and the staff at the theatre – as their spectators sat in their summer wear, fanning themselves relentlessly due to the heat, I couldn’t help but feel sympathy for our selfless sisters. Despite their layered costuming and inevitable warmth from the lighting, you couldn’t tell just how much they must have been suffering. A striking example of the show must go on and they were positively glowing throughout!
Amongst this fabulous cast were our very own Holy Trinity who gave outstanding must-see performances as three uniquely charismatic characters. Emma Craggs-Swainston was our bubbly ballerina Sister Mary Leo, with her devotion through dance and sweet sentimentality; Emily Rockliff was our aspiring lead, Sister Robert Anne, always the ubiquitous understudy, anxiously awaiting her rightful place in the spotlight.
Finally, we have Sister Mary Amnesia, who had the audience captivated from her very first facial expression. Annabel van Griethuysen’s talents knows no bounds, and the extremely challenging and farcical solos were made to look wonderfully easy.
Theatre@41 is the perfect home for this phenomenal cast, enabling the audience to be so immersed in the show, we became our own congregation, willingly devoted to this comedy gold.
Despite this sidesplitting – and at times outdated – writing and the brilliantly bold ensemble numbers throughout, one of my highlights has to be the stripped-back choral moments. It was a real opportunity for York Light to showcase the talent within their group, beautiful balance and tight harmonies. A job well done to Martin Lay, Neil Wood and the entire company.
It most definitely is fun to be a nun! Don’t miss out on these sparkling sisters raising a little hell at Theatre@41 until Saturday 6 July. Get your tickets online here.