Chattanooga Times Free Press - ChattanoogaNow
Hallelujah! ‘Sister Act’ opens this weekend
New musical at Cumberland County Playhouse runs through Sept. 8
“Sister Act,” the comedy about a disco diva who goes into witness protection disguised as a nun, opens Friday, July 21, at Cumberland County Playhouse, 221 Tennessee Ave., Crossville, Tenn.
The musical is based on the hit 1992 film that starred Whoopi Goldberg and Maggie Smith. Featuring original music by Tony and eight-time Oscar winner Alan Menken (“Newsies,” “Beauty and the Beast,” “Little Shop of Horrors”), this uplifting musical was nominated for five Tony Awards, including Best Musical.
“When I first saw ‘ Sister Act’ on Broadway, I knew it was a perfect show for the Playhouse,” says Artistic Director Britt Hancock. “”I know our audiences are going to love the show’s humor, its amazing music and its truly heartwarming message.”
When disco diva Deloris Van Cartier, played by Illeana Kirven, witnesses a murder committed by her gangster boyfriend, Curtis (Jason Ross), she runs to the police station to report the crime, where she discovers that the desk chief, Eddie ( Michael Ruff) is an old friend from school.
Eddie decides Deloris needs to go into witness protection and sends her to the one place he’s sure she won’t be found: a convent. Disguised as a nun, Deloris finds herself at odds with both the rigid lifestyle and the uptight Mother Superior (Lauren Marshall).
When Mother Superior suggests that Deloris lead the church’s choir, she uses her unique disco moves and singing talent to inspire the singers. Deloris breathes new life into the church and community, but in doing so blows her cover. Soon, the gang is giving chase, but Deloris finds salvation in the heavenly power of her newly found sisterhood.
“Sister Act” is directed by Playhouse Producing Director Bryce McDonald. The musical is choreographed by Leila Nelson with musical direction by Ron Murphy.
“Sister Act” is rated G and runs through Sept. 8. For more information: 931-484-5000.