Alexandra Burke is getting into the habit (sorry I couldn’t resist!) of stepping into big shoes. Having already brilliantly filled Whitney Houston’s shoes for The Bodyguard, this time she easily fills Whoopi Goldberg’s size nines in the role of Sister Act‘s Deloris Van Cartier, slapping some fierce heels on the bottom in the process.
Strutting her stuff around the stage whilst not missing a note, Alexandra’s vocals are rich, warm and powerful (she did win the X Factor after all). It is her comic timing that surprised me though; Whoopi was hilarious in the original 1992 film and I was a bit worried that I would miss her. I needn’t have worried because Alexandra is excellent, particularly with the physical comedy. Don’t expect a straight copy however; Alexandra makes the role sexy and fierce, perfect for today’s young audience.
Karen Mann as Mother Superior is a perfect foil meanwhile to Burke’s sex and sass. She is exactly what the character needs and brings some much needed poignancy to cut through the laugh out loud moments that dominate the rest of the show. Her vocals are outstanding and she helps the audience to really feel something for the other characters.
Strictly’s resident Mr. Nasty, Craig Revel-Horwood, directs and choreographs the production bringing equal amounts of comedy and fabulousness. Repeating the success of some of his previous shows (Chess, Fiddler on the Roof), the majority of the excellent cast are actor musicians; having the live band on stage adds to the spectacle and brings a good deal of humour to the routines. However, it feels well balanced and the appearance of instruments is natural rather than forced. Particular standouts among the supporting cast include cop ‘Sweaty Eddie’ who vies for Deloris’ affections with classic disco moves, a guitar and a fantastic moustache, and Sister Mary Robert who breaks out of her shell with a magnificent vocal performance.
If you are looking for a fun and fabulous night out, I can’t recommend Sister Act any more highly!
Where can I see Sister Act?
Sister Act is on at the New Theatre Oxford until Saturday 20th May before heading around the UK. If you miss it, fear not as it will be back this way in August at the Bristol Hippodrome.