Operatic’s latest matches hype
Expectations can be difficult to live up sometimes. Especially when they are raised by an avalanche of publicity that proclaims Sister Act will be a near-celestial experience.
It was smart marketing, but brave at the same time. After all, most of us knew of the film, starring comedienne Whoopi Goldberg, but few if any could have named a song from it. So it was with some trepidation that the curtain finally went up.
Was the New Plymouth Operatic Society going to be a victim of its own hype? Could a show with no familiar songs performed by largely home-grown amateur talent capture the imagination of audiences who had such fond, enduring memories of previous shows, including Cats, Les Miserables and Phantom of the Opera?
The answer is an emphatic yes! Sister Act is destined to be remembered, and rightly so, with the same reverence. Any reviewer worthy of the name would do well to observe the reaction of the audience and what a story that told. Right from the opening number, the laughter and the applause was spontaneous and never let up the entire time this talented cast were on the stage.
The standing ovation at the end spoke volumes. The audience was reluctant to have this special night end and kept the cast on stage for several curtain calls.
It was equally clear that the cast enjoyed the adulation and were happy to oblige – and rightly so.
Director Warren Bates could take a bow. Once again he produced a show which that effortlessly went from one scene to another. He was the Master Chef, ensuring every ingredient worked to complement each other and the result was stunning.
But as always, the real stars were on the stage.
None shine brighter than Sister Act (Delores) herself, played by Akina Edmonds. In many ways she made the show. Her character is so central to the show, it falls or succeeds as she does.
No review can name all of the outstanding performers, because on this occasion, it would require listing the entire cast and crew.
Do make a point of watching this show, it is pretty divine and you’ll be glad you did.
Taranaki can justifiably be proud of the New Plymouth Operatic Society.