'As an NSTA representative, I had the utmost pleasure of attending St Gabriel’s School's delightful and spirited performance of Sister Act: The Musical on Wednesday 5th March 2025. Under the expert guidance of director Ruth Chaplin, the creative vision of choreographer Katie Hastings, and the musical direction of Caroline Woodhouse, the production brimmed with energy, humour, and soul, delivering a night to remember for all in attendance.

Sister Act: The Musical follows Deloris Van Cartier, a nightclub singer who goes into hiding in a convent after witnessing a crime. While struggling with the strict lifestyle, she transforms the convent’s choir with her vibrant spirit and soulful voice, uniting the community and discovering the power of sisterhood. It's a joyful mix of comedy, music, and heart-warming moments that celebrate friendship and individuality.

As the audience entered the theatre, the red glitter Sister Act centrepiece caught the light and shimmered across the auditorium. The air buzzed with joyful anticipation, and every surface seemed to sparkle, promising a night of uplifting, high-energy fun.

Act 1 crackled with infectious energy, immediately transporting the audience to the vibrant, if chaotic, world of Deloris Van Cartier. From the smoky allure of the nightclub to the initially reluctant, then increasingly joyous, transformation of the convent, the pacing was impeccable. Deloris’s sassy defiance contrasted perfectly with the nuns' initial rigidity, creating hilarious and heart-warming moments. “Take Me to Heaven” and “It’s Good to Be a Nun” were showstoppers, showcasing the cast’s vocal power and comedic timing. The audience was fully invested, laughing and clapping along, eagerly anticipating the nuns’ inevitable evolution into a powerhouse choir.

The star of the evening was undoubtedly the dynamic portrayal of Deloris by Apple, whose charisma lit up the stage. With impeccable comedic timing, soaring vocals, and a magnetic presence, she embodied the vivacious nightclub singer turned undercover nun with charm and sass that captivated the audience.

Equally compelling was the portrayal of Mother Superior by Elizabeth, whose grace and gravitas added a layer of depth to the production. Her nuanced performance perfectly balanced authority, wisdom, and moments of vulnerability, creating a heart-warming counterpoint to Deloris’s exuberance.

A particularly heartening highlight was Sister Mary Robert, played by Isabelle, who emerged as a touching and memorable character. Her journey from shy, soft-spoken novice to finding her own voice and confidence was beautifully conveyed. Her solo moments stood out, bringing an emotional resonance that tugged at the heartstrings of the audience.

Whilst it would be near impossible to single out every individual performer for their energy and focus on stage, I feel that other individuals worthy of a mention include Isabella F, who played the quirky police officer Eddie with humour and fun; Charlotte, who played Curtis, the gangster, with strength and conviction; and Isabella B, who played the Monsignor to hilarious effect. The ensemble of nuns was a joyous collective, harmonising not only vocally but in their chemistry on stage, which brought the convent to life. The lively choreography and vibrant musical numbers ensured there was never a dull moment, and with such a large cast, this was a huge triumph for the choreographer.

This school production of Sister Act transcended mere entertainment, proving a powerful testament to the transformative potential of theatre. It fostered a vibrant community, allowing a diverse array of young talent to shine. The pupils’ dedication and evident joy in performance were infectious, and the uplifting story, coupled with the show’s irresistible energy, left the audience genuinely inspired. More than just a school play, this was a celebration of acceptance, empowerment, and the sheer joy of musical theatre, creating memories that will undoubtedly resonate for years to come.

A standing ovation was well-deserved for the cast and crew of St Gabriel’s School. Their dedication and talent shone through, making Sister Act: The Musical a truly divine experience for all. Bravo!'

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