Sister Act
at West Boca High School

Reviewed on March 12, 2020

Alan Halaly
Deerfield Beach High School
Submitted for publication to Florida Theater On Stage

Bust out your sequined tunics and diamond-studded rosaries! Sister Mary Clarence and her disco-loving nun choir are in town! Trust me, you've never seen a church choir this groovy. Full of laughs, poignant messages about the importance of sisterhood, and music that makes you want to boogie, West Boca High School's angelic production of "Sister Act" will have you on your feet.

Debuting at the Pasadena Playhouse, the show is based on the film of the same name. The 2011 Broadway production was produced by the original movie's star, Whoopie Goldberg, and racked up five Tony Award nominations including Best Musical. When boisterous lounge singer Dolores Van Cartier witnesses her mafia boyfriend Curtis shoot a man in the head, she heads straight for the police station. The peril comes when she discovers that her court date was delayed a year. Dolores is forced into witness protection and is put somewhere nobody, who knew Dolores, would ever think to look -- a convent.

Leading lady Maya Petrie as Dolores Van Cartier was a marvel to watch as she gave the audience a masterclass on powerhouse vocals and comedic timing. Her character arc was deftly crafted and presented, as Dolores matured and bonded with her sisters. Alongside her was holier-than-thou Mother Superior played by Jessica Balton, whose attention to detail in her cynical characterization elevated the hilarity in her pessimism while also maintaining superior vocal quality. The nuanced progression of their relationship was brilliantly executed as both characters came to realize they were not so different after all.

Desir Dejueste's charming awkwardness as the rookie police officer Eddie was a wonderful contrast to Dolores' audaciousness. His solo "I Could Be That Guy" showcased his range vocally, and he had a terrific character transition from being shy to spontaneous. He exhibited professionalism when his costume malfunctioned in a dance-heavy number and he did not miss a beat. Similarly there was Sister Mary Roberts, played by Brianna Quackenbush, whose expert solo "The Life I Never Led" perfectly communicated her newfound hunger for life. As a whole, the Queen of Angels Church Choir was stunning to watch in their electrifying group numbers such as "Raise Your Voice ''. They all had very distinct characters despite only having one or two solo lines in select songs.
Arguably the most impressive feature of the show was the special effects, as a student-led team constructed massive stained glass windows and a steeple that represented the church locale. The result blended an array of jewel tones magnificently. The stage management team also deserves high praise as not a single cue was missed, and despite there being multiple fly pieces, the scene changes were seamless.

West Boca High School's divine production of "Sister Act" delivers on all fronts, complete with a wonderful balance of humor and heart that work together in harmony. Just as Dolores announced in her debut performance with the nun choir, this show certainly puts the "sis" in Genesis...and did it flawlessly.

Abbey Alder
Calvary Christian Academy
Submitted for publication to Florida Theater On Stage

Get ready to rock in the pews of the Queen of Angels Church in South Philly, where Deloris Van Cartier "put the ‘sis' back in Genesis." West Boca High School's uplifting production of the musical, "Sister Act," inspired audiences to follow their dreams and be, "Fabulous, Baby!"

The stage musical, "Sister Act," was based on the 1992 comedic film of the same name. With toe-tapping music by Alan Menken, combined with the catchy lyrics of Glenn Slater. Cheri and Bill Steinkellner wrote the book, which Douglas Carter Beane later revised. "Sister Act" had its musical debut in 2006 at the Pasadena Playhouse, premiered in London's West End in 2009, and opened on Broadway in 2011. The musical follows aspiring singer, Deloris Van Cartier, who has the misfortune of accidentally witnessing a murder committed by her mobster boyfriend, Curtis Jackson. After Deloris reports the crime to the police, she is placed in protective custody in the last place anyone would ever look for her – surrounded by nuns in a convent. Vibrant and outspoken, Deloris's unfitting behavior causes friction with Mother Superior. Deloris eventually tries to conform for her safety and realizes that she may have more of a mission at the church than she anticipated.

Producing a "sound that turns your soul around," Maya Petrie (Deloris Van Cartier/Clarence) commanded the stage with her powerhouse performance. Building on her characterization, Petrie reached heavenly heights in the second act. Given the vocally demanding score, Petrie made it clear she was a "diva, goddess and star on the brink." Embodying the reserved head of the convent with captivating vocals and grace, Jessica Balton (Mother Superior) gave the perfect contrast and genuineness to the role.

Conveying an authentic rapport with each other were Alec Schwartz (Curtis Jackson) and his band of thugs, garnering laughs from their very first number, "When I Find My Baby." Other standouts were Brianna Quakenbush (Sister Mary Robert), whose vocals bloomed from her wallflower character, and Melody Burrage (Sister Mary Theresa), who chose impeccable comedic timing. The ensemble of lively nuns embraced their sense of community while still demonstrating their individuality. In "Sunday Morning Fever," the ensemble performed with spunk and synchronization. There was a noticeable improvement in the ensemble's diction in the second act. Whether the scene called for comedic relief or a heartfelt moment, the cast exhibited a thorough understanding of the context.

The various technical elements achieved the groovy 1970's atmosphere, and the orchestra maintained the production's high-energy. The special effects team of Amy Vitagliano, Liam Kline, and Scott Etzi created and programmed LED panels to emit a stained glass effect. Although, at times, the reason for the unlit panels seemed unclear. When all were lit, the result was stunning.

Experience the power of friendship, the bond of sisterhood, and feel your spirit move in West Boca High School's production of "Sister Act." Real connections are a divine gift, so remember to "Spread The Love Around."

Emma Sugarman
J.P. Taravella High School
Submitted for publication to Florida Theater On Stage

Hidden within the dull walls of a run-down convent, disco diva, Deloris Van Cartier, longs for her old life in the spotlight. When the lack of men, bars, and glitz becomes too much to bear, Deloris brings the sparkle to the steeple as she transforms the clashing choir to the spirited sunday service entertainment. West Boca High School's vibrant production of "Sister Act" follows Deloris as she helps her sisters find their sound while she reclaims her own.

With a book by Cheri and Bill Steinkellner, music by Alan Menken, and lyrics by Glenn Slater, "Sister Act" centers around an aspiring performer, Deloris Van Cartier, on her journey to find her future. After she witnesses a murder by her gangster boyfriend Curtis, the police send Deloris to a covent, where she will be hidden until Curtis' trial. Based on the film of the same name, the "divine musical comedy" tells the story of Deloris' transition to her alternate life as a nun as she brings the gospel glamour to save the church's impending closing.

Portraying the larger-than-life Deloris Van Cartier, Maya Petrie demanded the stage with her powerful vocals and impressive range. Petrie's expressive facials, stellar characterization, and unwavering energy created an animated and engaging performance. Combating Deloris' free spirit with her restrictive rules, the firm yet fair, Mother Superior was embodied by Jessica Balton. With her clear articulation and stunning vocalization, Balton truly captured the essence of her demanding role. She presented an explicit understanding behind each line, aiding her impeccable comedic timing. The pair developed an authentic relationship with a captivating progression throughout the production

Sister Mary Robert, the timid and youngest member of the convent, was portrayed by Brianna Quackenbush. Quackenbush presented an intriguing progression of her character's significant development accompanied by the marvelous tone of her voice. The eldest of the sisters, Sister Mary Theresa, was embodied by Melody Burrage. Burrage stood out amongst the ensemble in every scene due to her outstanding sense of comedy and consistent elderly voice and physicality.

The diverse characterizations and liveliness of the ensemble brought an infectious energy to the production. The large number of company members filled the stage with enthusiasm yet never created traffic issues. The ensemble also displayed commanding vocals and beautiful harmonies.

The perfectly executed technical aspects of the production helped depict the drab, crumbling convent to the liveliness and vibrancy after its renovation. The vitality of the choir's theatrical performances were conveyed through the rich coloring of the lighting including the brilliant stained glass windows. The costumes were perfectly fitting for the '70's time period, as well as each character's persona.

Infected with the chapel charm, West Boca High School's thrilling production of "Sister Act" will surely "Spread The Love Around." So groove and rejoice as the Queen of Angels present the true spirit of sisterhood and everlasting power of friendship.

Cameron Appel
Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School
Submitted for publication to Florida Theater On Stage

When a holy and dignified convent is invaded by a shelter seeking singer who embodies everything that a convent would condemn, it would be assumed that havoc should therefore ensue. Although glitter and glamour is not typically accepted in the presence of nuns, West Boca Drama Department teaches people not to judge a book by its cover in its hilarious and spirited production of "Sister Act".

Adapted from the 1992 hit movie starring Whoopi Goldberg, with music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Glenn Slater, and book by Cheri and Bill Steinkellner, "Sister Act" follows the journey of fame seeking singer Deloris Van Cartier. After witnessing her mafioso boyfriend Curtis commit murder, Deloris seeks shelter in the most unexpected of places, a convent. As she tries her best to fit in with her new found sisters, she finds herself actually bonding with them. Deloris then teaches them the ins and outs of singing.

Maya Petrie performed incomparably as the leading role of Deloris Van Cartier. Between her dynamic vocals and distinct physicality, Petrie was able to capture the engaging arc of Deloris, allowing a genuine connection to form between her and other characters. Petrie's bubbly energy and comedic timing aided her entire performance which magnificently shined in the numbers "Take Me To Heaven" and "Raise Your Voice". In addition to Petrie's outstanding performance, Desir Dejueste depicted the delightfully awkward policeman Eddie. Dejueste's unparalleled energy found himself at the spotlight of the stage, commanding the song "I Could Be That Guy".

Other roles worth noting include Mother Superior, who was effortlessly portrayed by Jessica Balton. Through her tremendous vocals she was able to convey the multidimensional personality that is Mother Superior, unveiling her seriousness until eventually her genuine heart was displayed. Sister Mary Robert, played by Brianna Quackenbush, was also able to showcase her extraordinary vocal talent, most notably in the song "Raise Your Voice". In a more broad light, the ensemble of nuns added individualized characters and comedy consistently throughout the performance. Shining physically as well as vocally, the ensemble brought a sense of completeness to the production each in their own unique manner.

The performance's technical aspects were also completed with incredible expertise. Special effects (Amy Vitagliano, Liam Kline, and Scott Etzi) lit the stage completely through practical and fitting LED stained glass windows. These customizable lights matched the tone of the scenes, from the blue and red lights in the police station to the spinning flashes of the Disco numbers. The Sister Act Orchestra, consisting of thirteen skilled students and three adults, maintained the fast paced liveliness of the show with little to no flaws despite abundant and challenging songs.

West Boca Drama Department's nearly professional production of "Sister Act" displayed the heartwarming yet comical tale of women uniting through the commonality of music. Although differences may persevere, the true purpose of coming together is to create light in the darkest of situations and innately "Spread The Love Around".

Nick Vela
J.P. Taravella High School
Submitted for publication to Florida Theater On Stage

The appealing allure of stardom is often the most desperately desired temptation of all. However, as an individual begins to uncover the importance of faith and the untapped potential of an undying friendship, they are led to the pivotal question: what are we truly left with when the dazzling sparkle of fame's glitz, glam, and glory goes out? "This whole new world of truth comes to light," as West Boca High School's praiseworthy production of "Sister Act" illustrates a fun and fabulous tale of the everlasting bond of sisterhood, making you want to "Raise Your Voice" for more.

Based on the 1992 hit movie of the same name, "Sister Act" made its 2006 regional premiere in Pasadena, California, with a sensationally soulful score composed by Alan Menken and Glenn Slater, and a heartfelt book written by Bill Steinkellner, Cheri Steinkellner, and Douglas Carter Beane. The feel-good comedy follows aspiring singer Deloris Van Cartier, as she struggles to find her footing in the less than ideal predicament she has accidentally found herself in. Witnessing her recent ex-boyfriend murdering one of his own cronies, Deloris is sent to a covenant for hiding and must learn to comply with the rigidity and devotion of nunhood.

Leading the production as the expressive and exuberant Deloris Van Cartier, Maya Petrie delivered a remarkable performance with powerhouse vocals, becoming the primary driving force of this uplifting musical. Paired with the endearing Eddie, portrayed by Desir Dejueste, whose clear character evolution to a courageous and protective police officer, made for an incredibly charming relationship with Petrie. A relationship characterized by an authentic chemistry.

Contrasting Petrie's entertaining liveliness, was Jessica Balton as the strict Mother Superior. Balton's impeccable vocal control, featured in her captivating musical number, "I Haven't Got A Prayer," gave us a complete understanding of her purpose within the story, demonstrating a mature sense of professionalism highlighted in her memorable performance.

Acting as the essential foundation of the production, the nun ensemble provided a spirited energy through their highly distinct characters, specifically shown in their show-stopping group numbers, "Take Me To Heaven (Nun Choir)" and "Sunday Morning Fever." Although performing as a beautifully cohesive unit with excessive amounts of talent, Brianna Quackenbush's evident character arch and outstanding vocal technique as Sister Mary Robert, Angelina Buck's precise comedic timing as Sister Mary Lazarus, and Melody Burrage's humourous characterization as Sister Mary Theresa, notably stood out as undoubtedly exceptional.

Aside from minor diction inconsistencies, the cast as a whole did a phenomenal job with the grandeur of the piece. Their exquisite harmonies, gorgeous vocal blend, and bold acting choices, allowed for extremely enjoyable characters. Technically, the production exhibited extravagant costumes that heightened the spectacle of the musical, commendable special effects that furthered the progression of the story, and efficient stage management that facilitated smooth scene transitions. All of which elevated the performance's overall production value.

"There are no words" to effectively describe the engaging music, animated movement, and heartwarming camaraderie of this nearly flawless production. So "take the hint," and come on down to West Boca High School's powerful performance of "Sister Act."