Director's Notes
As a child I asked my grandmother what her favorite movie was and she replied “Sister Act.” For years she talked about how she wished Sister Act would be made into a Broadway musical. A number of years ago, she attended a taping of the ABC television show The View and during a question and answer session with the audience, my grandmother asked Whoopi Goldberg if she ever thought about making a musical of the film. She was surprised to find out that one was in the works. I was filled with excitement at the prospect of selecting Sister Act as our spring musical. I know my grandmother is thrilled to see it, since she reserved her ticket months in advance. This show is my tribute to her.
This is a show about being true to oneself and not letting anyone hold you back. Despite being forced into hiding, Deloris refuses to hide her true self, and, in turn, inspires a group of nuns to discover who they are and where their hearts truly lie. It is refreshing to see a show that focuses on a group of women lifting each other up, rather than tearing each other down. The story is incredibly inspiring while still being humorous and fun.
One of the reasons the film was so successful was its memorable soundtrack. The musical features all new songs that are just as toe-tapping. Alan Menken’s musical score was inspired by 1970s music, specifically disco and gospel. As a result, the setting was changed from Reno and San Francisco in the 90s (the original setting of the movie) to Philadelphia in the 70s.
What you see on the stage tonight could not have been possible without the efforts, professionalism, and cooperation of a talented cast and crew who gave up so much of their time to make this show a success. I know that their experience here will be invaluable in their future theatrical endeavors, and I thank them from the bottom of my heart.
I offer my most sincere gratitude to the talented faculty whose hard work and dedication will not go unnoticed. Each and every one of them has made this experience one I will surely never forget. I extend a note of appreciation to the administration of the Orange School District and the members of the Orange Board of Education.
So please sit back, relax, and enjoy the show. It’s habit-forming!
Dana Levin
