The Opera House Players, Broadbrook, CT
through February 25, 2018
by Rebecca Phelps
Hats off to The Opera House Players as they celebrate their
50th anniversary of producing and performing quality and affordable musical
theatre in northern and central Connecticut. Although sad to leave their home of the past 15 years in the
historic Broad Brook Opera House, they plan on returning to their original
location in Enfield, CT next
season and continue their mission. For all its quirkiness and theatrical
challenges (virtually no wing space, no access to backstage without passing through
the audience, no orchestra pit) the Opera House is homey, comfortable, rife
with charm and historic interest, and there is not a bad seat in the house.
The show “Sister Act,” is not to be confused with the movie
of the same name. The musical has a completely different score. The songs are
much more Broadway and less Hollywood, with no shortage of rousing numbers,
just made for harmonizing and choreographic opportunities for women in habits.
Depending entirely on its actor/singers to carry the energy
and character development, there are minimal sets or technical aspects. With a
somewhat slow start, the musical picked up speed, and by the finale the
audience was on their feet with enthusiasm and appreciation for the obvious
energy, fun and talent displayed by the cast and this heart-warming tale of
forgiveness and redemption.
Especially notable were Mother Superior, played to a the
hilt by newcomer to Opera House Players Jenna Levitt; and Tracy Funke as Sister
Mary Patrick -- a real scene stealer with her high energy and exuberant
dancing. Dennis J. Scott portrayed the perfect villain and his side kicks made
equally entertaining back-up singer/dancers. Jim Metzler was hilarious as the
deadpan Monsignor; and as Deloris, Nikita Waller’s vocals were fabulous,
sensitive and not overplayed. The skillful five-piece pit band lead by Kim
Aliczi did a stupendous job of providing all the high powered momentum without
drowning out the performers.
“Sister Act” was an evening of pure, unadulterated fun.
