Review: Sister Act, Theatre Arlington
Reviewed by: Natalie Shaw
Sister Act, the movie, is an all-time favorite of mine and staple of my generation. Who can forget Whoopi Goldberg getting those sheepish nuns pumped up about singing for the Lord? But, the musical version has an even richer, vibrant sound than the movie we all know and love. The musical arrangements are full of soul, and catchy melodies that you'll be singing all the way home from the theater. Director Steven D. Morris brings us the best musical this season, so far! With so many talented singers, a live band, (music directed by Elaine Davidson,) wonderful score and appropriate acoustics within the Theatre Arlington stage space, you'll want to stay to listen and watch all night!
In particular, leading lady, Myiesha J. Duff has a masterful range of voice, in which she has complete control. There are tender moments where her character, Deloris Van Cartier sings angelically, and powerful moments where she belts so strongly, it's enough to make you jump out of your seat, rejoicing. Additionally, her performance as an actress exhibits a well-crafted characterization with direct motivation, and sharp tactics. In those instances where we find Deloris to be humorously witty and sassy, she is also maintaining a genuine, driving force behind her character's ambition. When she is vulnerable, we are able to empathize with her character's exposed instability, as if we are living the moment with her. Similarly, we observe Deloris' young protege, Sister Mary Robert, through the eyes of Tara Park, who is relatively new to Dallas area Theatre. Following in the footsteps of her mentor, Sister Mary Robert makes a drastic change, setting her young life on a different path from her upbringing. Ms. Park's solo "The Life I Never Led," is a combination of her character's emotional exposure to Deloris' outside world, as well as a moment of expressed empowerment. This shift in her characterization throughout the musical number is beautifully interrupted by Ms. Park and smoothly executed within her exquisite vocal range.
Another splendid element of the production is the set design and scene transitions. The use of a rotating stage, brilliant technical work, (designed by Bryan Stevenson,) and quiet-as-a-mouse set changes (stage managed by Maria Leon Hickox,) allowed for transitions that are similar to a film experience, moving from one segment to the next without an interruption or editing flaw. A comical slapstick-style routine using the rotating stage is the most fun I've experienced with this type of set design and one that will definitely be remembered!
Sister Act is fabulous and worthy of praise! You won't want to miss seeing the greatest musical this season at Theatre Arlington! Book your seats now, and find out how great it truly is to be a nun. Most appropriate for ages 14+ .
God Bless and Y'all Enjoy!
Natalie Shaw
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