I was vaguely familiar with the Whoopi Goldberg movie and wondered how that image could be erased when transferring to the musical stage? Not only that but the large character now to be played by the young talented pop sensation that is Alexandra Burke must be quite a challenge. Not that I am dismissing Ms burke before curtain up as we saw how she transformed herself into a composite stage performer in The Bodyguard previously on this very stage in the acclaimed touring production. If anything we have high expectations for the diva with a secret.
All the characters in Sister Act are over the top stereotypical and this adds to the comedy element. The nuns are loopy, Mother Superior is strict, Curtis and the gangsters are nuts and Delores (Alexandra Burke) is a soul sister diva with several musical numbers to confirm this.
Director and choreographer is Craig Revel Horwood so the dancing and positioning are first class. When sweaty Eddie (Joe Vetch) transforms Sunday Morning fever to the Night Fever dance floor it is a special moment with the full ensemble as one on Travolta inspired moves. The actors as on stage musicians must be a nightmare to program and balance but the sound is superb even with strings, brass and percussion jostling for positions.
Delores (Alexandra) has her big moments and the heavenly chorus reprise is a spectacular finish to this absolutely divine show.
Edinburgh Playhouse till April 15th