Heaven-sent: Sister Act returns to spread love all around us
Sister Act the movie was fun and it’s a hoot on stage as well, with powerhouse performer Casey Donovan ‘raising her voice’ and leading the way.
It’s difficult for Casey Donovan to pick a highlight of her starring role as disco diva nun Deloris Van Cartier in the musical Sister Act. Donovan says there’s so much to choose from – Deloris’ character brings her so much joy – and, then, there’s the music.
“It’s such a fun show,” says Donovan of the musical, which plays QPAC’s Lyric Theatre from February 8. “People come along with low expectations, then leave absolutely in awe and end up having a great night out.”
Those of a certain vintage can dimly remember seeing Sister Act the movie when it was released more than 30 years ago, but may be a bit sketchy on the details. Donovan reassures us that the stage musical soundtrack from Broadway legend composer Alan Menken is reason enough to come along – whether or not you’ve seen the movie.
“Alan Menken’s music is just faultless,” she says. “Of course, it isn’t the songs from the movie. It is all original music by Alan Menken, and it’s a beautiful ode to the movie. It’s set in the ’70s – its disco fabulousness and his musicality has just been amazing.”
Menken is considered Broadway musical royalty – a writer of memorable tunes for numerous musicals over four decades, from The Little Mermaid to Little Shop of Horrors. He’s also an EGOT – part of the very small cohort of winners of an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony Award.
Donovan says Menken’s distinctive stamp is all over Sister Act. With inspiration from Motown, it is fuelled by soul and disco, genres close to her heart. She challenges anyone to come along and not end up dancing in their seat.
“Audiences can really just expect a fun show. It doesn’t have any hidden messages. It’s a show about community and love and joy and people coming together,” she says. “And I think that’s what we need in today’s world. There’s a great song that a lot of people walk out singing called Raise Your Voice. So, I can’t wait to raise our voices in Brissie.”
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Donovan is looking forward to returning to Brisbane after her memorable turn two years ago as Judy Bernly in 9 to 5 The Musical. But in Sister Act she’s starring in her biggest role to date, alongside fellow Australian musical legends Genevieve Lemon as Mother Superior and Rhonda Burchmore as choir leader Sister Mary Lazarus. Donovan says she’s learning as much as she gives, as part of such a stellar cast.
“It’s very exciting,” Donovan says. “I’m very fortunate and Deloris is high energy. She has to make an impact in every scene she enters. It is a great show and I can’t wait to bring it to Brissie.”
Sister Act plays the Lyric Theatre, QPAC, February 8 to March 15.
qpac.com.au