Hallelujah! North Shore Players' "Sister Act" is a Blast of Fun

I’m supposed to hide as a nun - I’ll go nuts!

North Shore Players put on a spectacular musical rendition of “Sister Act,” based on the 1992 film, starring Whoopi Goldberg. After witnessing a murder, Deloris must hide in a church, disguised as a nun, under the name Sister Mary Clarence. Deloris is against the idea until she bonds with the other sisters and helps with the struggling church.

Dancing nuns, singing, and disguises. That’s “Sister Act” all right. “Sister Act” has become one of my favorite musicals. Seeing this show was a blast of fun at North Shore Players. The cast’s radiant energy highlighted what theater is all about. Never judge someone too soon, because life lessons are gratifying.

Nadia Robertson Gemma reprises her role as Deloris (AKA Sister Mary Clarence) from her outstanding performance in Colonial Chorus Players’ rendition in 2024. She is still as sassy as ever, cracking Deloris’s sarcastic humor, funny reactions, and incredible singing voice. Gemma highlights Deloris' growth, who becomes more tolerant of others and even her own life.

I will keep saying it again and again; no part is ever small in the theater. “Sister Act” has several character shoes to fill. The ensemble was having the greatest time in every scene, rocking out to musical numbers, running around the stage, and bringing the story to life.

Lisa Symonds plays Mother Superior. She sings beautifully in “Here Within These Walls.” Deloris and Mother Superior’s relationship is a focal point of the show. After throwing harsh words and accusations, they see each other differently in the climax.

The ensemble of actresses who play the nuns stole every scene with their humor. Keira Gasson (Sister Mary Robert), Victoria Knight (Sister Mary Patrick), and Carolyn Junker (Sister Mary Lazarus) were each funny in their performances, songs, and character growth. Deloris’s dynamic with the nuns creates a strong sisterhood, highlighting friendship.

And then there were Dan Sulzinsky (Curtis), Josh Foisy (TJ), Evelyn Gayhart (Joey), and Lucas Delemarter (Pablo), as the villains. They had the audience laughing anytime they were onstage. It’s a wonder how they do anything with their clumsy shenanigans. I bopped my head to their tuneful disco villain song, “When I Find My Baby.”

Theater involves several helping hands. Without costume designer Lucy Keller, Eddie (Ari Stillman) wouldn’t have done a triple quick change onstage in his number, “I Could Be That Guy.” From sets, lighting, and sound, “Sister Act” glows in every scene.

The music by Alan Menken is a signature part of “Sister Act.” Songs like “Raise Your Voice,” “Take Me to Heaven,” and “Spread the Love Around” were vibrant, featuring energetic dances choreographed by Paul Gymziak, who also serves as the director.

Gymziak said that working on “Sister Act” was a joyful experience. I liked his direction in scenes where characters race around the stage. My friend and I called it “Looney Tunes” chases. Overall, Gymziak highlights themes of growth, tolerance, and friendship.

Audience reaction is my favorite part of any show. Everyone was laughing, applauding, and dancing in their seats. One of my favorite moments was witnessing a group of young girls applaud a heartwarming scene. With dark moments happening in the world, it was uplifting to see their response to a message that reflects human nature.

“Sister Act” was a meaningful selection for November, a time to be thankful. Religion is a humbling part of the story. Somebody is always looking out for you.

I couldn’t stop smiling (or dancing in my seat) throughout the whole production. You don’t want to miss “Sister Act” in its final shows at North Shore Players in Danvers, ending on Sunday, Nov. 23.