SING YOUR HEART OUT TO SISTER ACT

Beverley Knight explains why starring in the gospel musical is the role of a lifetime

Being on stage has always felt like home to me – it’s breathing, it’s eating, it’s fundamental. I can’t imagine going through life without performing and giving as much joy as I can. My first ever stage was the pulpit at church, when I must have been about four. I joined my mum and my older sister, who were up there singing – you couldn’t have kept me in my seat.

London’s West End is world-leading for musical theatre, and I’m so proud to be part of that rich heritage. Stepping into the shoes of Deloris Van Cartier in Sister Act this summer is a privilege. Deloris is a slick-talking woman with an answer for everything – she’s got that Philadelphia swagger. When I’m visualising her, I’m not just seeing Whoopi Goldberg, who was the trailblazer for the role; I’m also thinking of the dynamic disco divas of that era I want to channel, such as Diana Ross, Donna Summer and Gloria Gaynor.

Just the idea of someone who is so sassy and sexy having to park all that and put on a nun’s habit is hilarious.

You don’t need to know anything else about the story, like the fact the Mafia is after her and she’s in witness protection; the image alone is funny as hell. And, for me, the chance to be on stage with Jennifer Saunders and Lesley Joseph, who are so loved and treasured, was a monster of a draw. Singing these songs makes you instantly straighten your back, push out your chest and feel as though you’re owning your queendom. ‘Take Me to Heaven’ is about a woman telling a man what she wants him to do to satisfy her, and ‘Fabulous Baby’ is a celebration of a woman embracing her truth. I want people to leave the theatre feeling uplifted, edified – and that life is just a bit brighter.

‘Sister Act’ is at the Eventim Apollo from 19 July to 28 August (www.sisteractthemusical.co.uk/london).