Review: SISTER ACT, Eventim Apollo
Photo credit: Manuel Harlan
The Eventim Apollo has housed all manner of performers and acts over the years, from comedians to musicians to circus acts. Now Sister Act the Musical has opened at the venue, one of the few musical theatre productions to be performed on the Hammersmith stage. Sister Act is based upon the beloved 90s film of the same name. It has the storyline viewers know and love and is a very good concept for a musical, making for an enjoyable, lighthearted night out, certainly a very welcome tonic for audiences in these present times.
With a venue not purpose built for shows such as this, despite stunning costumes, fantastic lighting and wonderful staging that utilises the space available, not every seat in the 3300+ seat auditorium is able to offer the same experience and many audience members may feel distanced from the action. But, despite the venue’s shortcomings, what other show might you be treated to the talents of Beverley Knight, Jennifer Saunders, Lesley Joseph, Keala Settle, Clive Rowe, and Lizzie Bea? With roles of varying sizes, each of these actors leave their mark with memorable performances.
Direct from her Olivier-nominated performance in The Drifters Girl at the Garrick Theatre, Beverley Knight as Deloris van Cartier shows us why she is one of the UK’s best-loved singers. The role of Mother Superior offers the opportunity for its portrayer to spin it in their own way. Jennifer Saunders takes this role in true ‘Jennifer Saunders style’ and gives the audience exactly the performance they want from her with dry humour, funny remarks and scene stealing reactions. She is not a singer but she is able to sing her songs suitably to accompany her comedic performance.
Clive Rowe gives a wonderful performance as “Steady” Eddie Souther, a change from the “Sweaty” Eddie in previous productions. He feels particularly at home in his role delivering one of the most enjoyable individual numbers of the night. Lowest billed of the poster cast, Lizzie Bea is remarkable as Sister Mary Robert. The sound capacity of the Eventim Apollo means that wherever you are sat the quality is excellent, very much needed to reach the full audience in such a large venue, but this is most pleasing because it allows you to enjoy Lizzie’s stunning vocals. She is the one to watch, even when she is silent.
Of course seeing all of these seasoned performers shine on stage, you are getting your entertainment’s worth, however this show is supported by a superb, hardworking ensemble. They barely leave the stage, portray clearly well thought out characters, sing gorgeous harmonies (after Deloris works her magic, at least) and dance full out, and that’s without mentioning the many roles they understudy. Without a chorus of nuns, this show simply wouldn’t be what it is.
Sister Act is a fun show featuring a lively score filled with clever lyrics and songs you’ll be humming on your way home. The cast each give good performances in a show that, whilst not breaking boundaries for musical theatre, unites audiences with a universally good night out.
**** Four stars
Reviewed by: Cat Hancock
Sister Act plays at the Eventim Apollo until 28 August, with tickets available here.