“Sister Act” Shines

By Cate Rees-Hessel

Drury Lane’s stellar production of “Sister Act” is a must-see production this holiday season. Audiences can enjoy this trip to the 1970’s in this beautifully decorated theater, and this production has something for everyone: innovatively wonderful costumes, illuminating lighting, beautiful vocals, and an enormously talented cast.

In the role of Curtis Jackson is the debonair Kelvin Roston, Jr. He gives a flawless performance, ominous as the villain but never overly sinister. We see glimpses of humanity in his realistic portrayal. Mr. Roston’s voice and dance moves are excellent. Delores is brought to life by the beautiful Rae Davenport – her vocals are top notch; she is a very gifted actress and a pleasure to watch.

The entire group of nuns are fabulous – they have a sisterly rapport that is completely beautiful. Mother Superior is played by Michelle Duffy, who is absolutely tremendous as the put out, “haven’t got a prayer” sister that has a heart of gold under her gruff exterior. Ms. Duffy plays this dichotomy with professional ease and expertise. As Sister Mary Robert, Amanda Walker gives a magnificent performance, her characters innocence and strength a perfect blend.

This entire group of talented actors, including Chicago favorites Lorenzo Rush Jr. and Kayla Shipman, give it their all, making this the best onstage production of this musical that I have seen. Also, the cast is collecting for the Chicagoland theater artists charity Season of Concern, so you’ll want to get your donation in. This show is blessed and will take you “…To Heaven”, but the “Sister Act” can’t go on forever – it closes January 11th – so speed on a wing and a prayer to drurylanetheatre.com for tickets or more information.

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