Behind the scenes at Melbourne’s SISTER ACT media call

The Regent Theatre in Melbourne was abuzz with anticipation on Friday, as the cast and crew of the major new musical ‘Sister Act’ gathered for an exclusive media preview. Amid the excitement, AussieTheatre’s photographer Cameron Grant, known by his nickname Parenthesy, was on-site to capture the essence and behind-the-scenes action before the show’s official debut in Melbourne.

 

Based on the beloved film starring Whoopi Goldberg, ‘Sister Act’ has been reimagined as a musical comedy that has already enjoyed successful runs on Broadway and in the West End. The production promises to be a jubilant experience, featuring original music by Tony® and eight-time Oscar®-winning composer Alan Menken. Menken, whose legendary repertoire includes scores for Disney classics such as ‘Aladdin,’ ‘The Little Mermaid,’ and ‘Beauty and the Beast,’ infuses the show with songs inspired by Motown, soul, and disco, making for an uplifting, high-energy performance.

 

 

 

The musical follows the story of disco diva Deloris, who finds herself in an unlikely situation after witnessing a murder. Placed in protective custody in a convent, she turns her life around by helping the convent’s struggling choir discover their true potential, while also rediscovering her own. This blend of comedy, drama, and spectacular musical numbers has made ‘Sister Act’ a crowd favorite, earning five Tony Award nominations, including Best Musical, and six Olivier Award nominations during its West End run and subsequent revival.

 

 

The cast in Melbourne is headlined by powerhouse performers Casey Donovan, Genevieve Lemon, and Rhonda Burchmore. Joining them are a talented ensemble that includes Sophie Montague, Bianca Bruce, Raphael Wong, James Bryers, Damien Bermingham, Emma Powell, Sally Bourne, Jordan Angelides, Tom Struik, James Bell, Kayla Carter, Gabriyel Thomas Theodore Williams, Patrick Volpe, Elenor Smith Adams, Cara Bessey, Melanie Bird, Simon Fairweather, and Jake Ameduri.

 

 

With rehearsals in full swing, the media preview offered an exclusive sneak peek into the vibrant and dynamic world that ‘Sister Act’ will bring to the stage. Capturing these moments was no small feat, but Cameron Grant’s lens perfectly chronicled the emotion, choreography, and camaraderie among the cast. His images promise to convey the spirit of the show, giving audiences a taste of the dazzling production that awaits them.

 

 

Menken’s contribution to ‘Sister Act’ reflects his unparalleled career. With music that has defined generations, Menken’s accolades include eight Academy Awards—more than any other living individual—alongside 11 Grammy Awards, seven Golden Globes, and a Tony Award for ‘Newsies.’ His recent Emmy win in 2021 marked his entry into the elite group of EGOT winners. His film and stage credits span decades, from animated favorites like ‘Tangled’ and ‘Hercules’ to stage musicals such as ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ and ‘A Bronx Tale.’

 

 

As the Melbourne production prepares for its official opening, excitement continues to build. The combination of a stellar cast, Menken’s indelible music, and the production’s joyful spirit ensures that ‘Sister Act’ will be nothing short of heavenly. With Parenthesy’s behind-the-scenes photography capturing the magic of the media call, theatre enthusiasts can look forward to an unforgettable experience when the show takes to the stage at the Regent Theatre and beyond.

 

 

‘Sister Act’ will run in Melbourne from November 2024, followed by performances at Brisbane’s Lyric Theatre from February 2025, Adelaide Festival Centre from March 2025, and Perth’s Crown Theatre from April 2025.

For more information, visit www.sisteractthemusical.com.au or follow on social media at @sisteractmusicalau.