Sister Act as presented by Kilmacud Musical Society

APRIL 9-13TH 2024

Adjudication Performance 9th April 

There was a good atmosphere in the Dlr Mill Theatre pre show, a good buzz. I was looking forward to this production The Front of House team was warm and welcoming, providing patrons with a friendly face as they entered the theatre. They were efficient in their work, quickly and smoothly guiding the audience to their seats while ensuring everyone had everything they needed, such as programs and refreshments 

The Director of this production was Paul Fay. Mr Fay's direction of characters and development was good showing an understanding of the characters and the story's themes. While there were some areas where the direction could have been tighter, particularly in the Ensemble scenes, where there were unnecessary straight lines in the Chorus, the production was well-executed and enjoyable. Mr. Fay communicated his vision for the cast and crew to the audience, a packed house. The show's pacing was okay in general but slow in parts, but the transitions between scenes were smooth. A few scenes could have benefited from tighter direction, such as “Sunday Morning Fever.” However, despite these minor issues, Mr Fay's direction ultimately resulted in a coherent and entertaining production, with direction good overall. 

There was a lovely flow to this show musically and conducted at a perfect pace, which is a huge requirement for this show. 

The Choreographer, Rachel Sheahan, brought a vibrant energy to the show with her great choreography. Her ability to create gorgeous, fun, full-of-life numbers such as the showstopping “Take Me to Heaven,” “Spread the Love Around,” and “Raise Your Voice” took this production to a beautiful level. Numbers were very well rehearsed and consistently looked great. The cast seemed to have a lot of fun in these numbers, a tribute to the fact that they were all comfortable doing them, and it did show. The Choreography jumped off the stage, and I loved it. 

The Stage Manager was Mr Colum McDaid. When I saw this gentleman's name, I knew that his area of responsibility would be excellent, with fabulous attention to detail, and I was right. Sets were fir for purpose if not sometimes too minimalistic with some scenes where a little more attention to detail could’ve made a significant difference . e.g. only a chaise longue in the scene with Deloris and Eddie. More could easily have been added, But for the most part, the sets were good; they were well-managed and very well-moved, with such fabulous smooth transitions between scenes, allowing the show to flow seamlessly. 

The lighting was used effectively to create different moods and atmospheres that perfectly complemented the music and the narrative. The lighting was simply lovely for the most part. I found some the scenes involving Curtis and Deloris a bit dark, especially with the LED blue lights on the stage. However I loved the myriad of rainbow colours in “Take Me To Heaven” - absolutely fabulous. I did like the green spots beaming down on to the stage in the scene with Deloris and Eddie, these were very different and very clever and subtle. 

The lighting in the Nuns Dining room, in its warm yellows and brown tones, lighting up the stained glass windows behind it, was another lovely visual that created that homely atmosphere. Of course, for the bows, the rainbow of colours was just magical, given the fun party vibe and a lovely finish to the show. 

The sound team's work was commendable, maintaining precise diction through excellent balancing of the actors' radio mics. While there were a few instances where the music slightly overpowered the actors' vocals, I will emphasize this was not a Musical Direction issue. Instead, it was a minor sound issue that could have been resolved by adjusting the mics' volume during dialogue with Mother Superior, on occasion Deloris, and in one or two scenes with Curtis, Joey, and TJ. Chorus and Ensemble numbers sounded very good. 

Sadly, the Nun’s costumes were not up to the same level of as the rest of the production. The nun's habits were skin-tight and practically could be described as bordering on “sexy.” They were wrong and way too clingy, particularly the costume of the Mother Superior. This was quite disappointing and distracting as it took away from the reverend holiness expected in a convent. Deloris’s costumes, on the other hand, were superb. Sassy, revealing, and bold, the nun's costume was still too tight but less evident than the other nuns in the Chorus. 

The men's costumes used in the show were impressive. Each character had unique and distinct outfits that reflected their different personalities, with Curtis's costume being a stand-out. (I loved that suit!!!) While the overall quality of the costumes was good, the nuns were on the lower end of sound in terms of appropriateness, which was a pity as the costumes for everybody else were generally very good. 

Hair and Makeup. The makeup was applied carefully, and hairstyles were good, with each actor's hair styled to suit each character's personality and style and the era. Although the makeup and hair were very good, I feel there were one or two instances where the hair could have been better. Deloris’s hair would have been more appropriate under her veil and hidden in her scenes as Sr Mary Clarence; when the other nuns did have their hair hidden. 

It would have been more in keeping in maintaining the Convent and the difficulties Deloris had with being a nun and felt that it broke the continuation of the strict rules all nuns must obey about hair under their veils and hidden away. Other than this, the hair and makeup were good overall. 

Props were generally good , but more could have been added to sets as previously mentioned to further enhance the realism. 

Sophie Rischar played the part of Deloris Van Cartier. From the moment she entered the stage, she was a lovely Deloris, vibrant and sassy, with a beautiful singing voice that perfectly complemented the music in each song. Her acting skills were also top-notch, flawlessly transitioning between the comedic and dramatic moments of the show. Ms Rischar moved confidently, and her sass and image were delicious, which was a strong performance. Ms Rischar's performance was a highlight of the show, and the audience was captivated by her presence on stage. She truly brought the character to life engagingly and entertainingly. Songs “It’s Good to Be a nun,” “Raise Your Voice,” the lovely scene with Eddie, and “Fabulous Baby” were simply superb, and I was so very impressed with Ms. Rischar's vocal and acting in this role, which she played wonderfully well. 

Alison Gill played the part of Mother Superior. I am sorry to say that I did feel this performance of the Mother Superior was underplayed, and while Ms. Gill had a good singing voice, some of her singing was a little flat and lacking in emotions and feelings. The Mother Superior requires a certain level of strength, humour, and leadership, which I did not see in Ms. Gills's performance. The delivery of some of the humorous lines lacked the necessary comedic timing, which resulted in some of the comedy falling flat. 

Tara Doherty Eagles played the part of Sr Mary Robert. This was indeed an engaging and emotionally powerful performance. The actor's ability to convey the character's vulnerability, uncertainty, and strength was remarkable, creating a truly memorable and touching performance. “The Life I Never Led “ was powerful and a highlight of this whole show, without a doubt. It was super. Sung with such conviction, energy, and feeling, it was a joy to listen to. A singing voice so good, Ms delivered each musical number with skill, power, and emotion, perfectly capturing the show's spirit. Lovely performance. 

Sarah Dooley played the part of Sister Mary Patrick. I sat up straighter in my seat for every scene Ms Dooley was in. Ms Dooley delivered a brilliant performance with exceptional acting and vocals and looked great. Ms Dooleys comedic timing was impeccable, with her delivery of the show's funniest lines earning her many laughs from the audience. Ms Dooley had a lovely interpretation of each song, sung with a beautiful sensitivity and authenticity. In addition to her acting and vocal talents, Ms Dooley’s visual performance was also a production highlight. Again, apart from her nun's habit costume already mentioned, her movements and gestures flowed easily and were fun. Ms Dooley was a joy to watch on stage, and I hope to see you again on stage in the future. 

Gillian Lynch played the part of Sister Mary Lazarus. What a character. What a role. What acting. I could go on. You were simply superb in this show Ms Lynch. I adored everything about you. Your facial expressions, even when you were not speaking or in the limelight, were simply classic. You were so funny. I was consistently smiling, and the nun's habit made it even more amusing because you were not the typical cast religious type! Ms Lynch was a delight. It is an exceptional portrayal of this character, showcasing her impeccable comedic timing, hilarious facial expressions, and fantastic vocals. Her singing was also impressive, with her powerful and emotive vocals capturing the show's essence. “It's good to be a Nun” was fabulous. Simply, Ms Lynch’s role as Sister Mary Lazarus touched the audience and will be remembered as one of the show's highlights.

James Twomey played the part of Eddie Souther. Mr. Twomey's performance was excellent. A lovely, friendly chap with good timing and easily moved about the stage. Lovely vocal Mr Twomey's “I Could Be That Guy” was sung so sweetly I hung on every word. You were an officer but also a good man and a good friend, and you played this part with great aplomb and lovely acting; “Sunday Morning Fever” was simply incredible. You had great costumes and a charming rapport with your fellow cast members. Watching you on stage, Mr Twomey, was a joy to watch in his lovely role. You made it your own. Congratulations. 

Liam Mackessy played the part of TJ. Great performance. Mr Mackessy brought a gorgeous energy and charm to the show, and his quirky and comedic timing made me laugh. A quirky character, Mr Mackessy's vocal abilities were also top-notch, as he delivered his musical numbers with lovely emotion,” When I Find My Baby” and “The Lady In The Long Black Dress” were super—capturing the character's journey perfectly. It was clear that TJ put a lot of time and effort into perfecting his performance, which was well done. 

David Supple played the part of Curtis. What a magnificent role Mr Supple played as Curtis. His performance was nothing short of super. Mr Supple’s stage presence was commanding; His chemistry with the other actors on stage, especially his “crew” of TJ, Pablo, and Joey or his henchmen, as I think Curtis would prefer me to call them! Was excellent. I must mention this specifically, as this role created a palpable tension that added an extra layer of empathy, and the gun was very threatening and used accordingly. 

Ray Bissett played Monsignor O’Hara’s part. What impeccable comedic timing and a lovely natural stage presence; he brought warmth and charm to the character. “Sunday Morning Fever” was superb, and I would have liked to have heard more of you in this production well done. 

Nikki Johnston and Sarah Riddik played the parts of Tina & Michelle. Great friends and great friends of Deloris Von Cartier, this duo was full of devilment and fun. And of course, gorgeous costumes!! Tina and Michelle excelled in this production! These two talented actresses brought so much fun and joy to the show with their delightful performances. Congratulations to these two lovely actresses on their outstanding performance!

Joyce Neary played Mary Martin of Tours. Mary Martin of Tours' "Sister Act." It was a lovely performance by Ms Martin, with a commanding stage presence. 

Billy Andrews played the part of Ernie. Hou acted this part well, and in his acting so fearfully and afraid, he brought out the not-so-nice side of Curtis and the boys in his scene with them. 

The chorus was very good in their many numbers. Their harmonies were tight, well-executed, and well learnt. There was a lovely passion and energy in the singing and movement of all the songs, with highlights such as “The Perfect Place,” “I Could Be That Guy,” and the stunning “Benedicta-ta For Now.” Of course, the magnificent “Spread the Love Around” and the showstopper “Raise Your Voice” were sublime in sound, tone, and harmonies. These songs were a stunning musical performance that uplifted and inspired me and your audience. Bravo!

I had a lovely evening in this gorgeous Theatre. You are a beautiful group of talented and friendly people. I wish you all the best in your future productions and thank you for making me feel so welcome throughout.

CAROLINE DALY JONES

Adjudicator Sullivan 2023 / 2024 

Photos by @Stephen Dingley