‘Sister Act’ comes to Jozi
JOBURG – Bernard Jay, executive producer for Joburg Theatre of 'Sister Act' – the biggest musical in Joburg this year – is proud to announce the stellar South African cast of the country’s première production of the feel-amazing musical comedy.
Sister Act will open on the stage of The Mandela at Joburg Theatre from 10 July – 16 August.
Leading the cast will be Candida Mosoma as disco diva Deloris Van Cartier, the role made famous by Whoopi Goldberg in the top grossing 1992 movie comedy of the same name.
“The role of Deloris Van Cartier in Sister Act is – arguably – the flashiest and most challenging written for a black female in recent musical theatre history,” said Bernard Jay.
He continued, “It’s a star role for a star personality with star attitude. When Candida Mosoma walked into the audition room and started being Deloris from the first moment, we all knew we had found our star.”
Upon hearing the news of her lead casting, Mosoma excitingly stated; “It’s a little daunting stepping into Whoopi Goldberg’s shoes, but what an opportunity. I intend to grab it with both hands and can’t wait to make the role my own.”
This brand new ‘non-replica’ production of the musical Sister Act will be directed by Janice Honeyman, with musical direction by Rowan Bakker, choreography by Nicol Sheraton, production design by Declan Randall, costume design by Sarah Roberts and sound design by Trevor Peters.
Joining Candida Mosoma, South African stage star Kate Normington will play Mother Superior (legendarily portrayed by Maggie Smith in the movie), and Keith Smith will play the pivotal role of Monsignor O’Hara.
Sister Act in Joburg will be a creative collaboration and celebration of South African talent. Multi-award-winning South African director and writer Janice Honeyman is on board to direct. “No one in South Africa has proven herself to be in finer creative control of ‘non-replica’ mega-musical productions than Janice. No one knows the magic possibilities of The Mandela stage like Janice,” explained Bernard Jay. “I’m just so thrilled that she loves the show too and said yes.”
Bernard Jay produces Sister Act for Joburg Theatre, with Simon James and Claire Pacariz as associate producers. Timothy le Roux will serve as resident director.
The wittily infectious musical is written by Cheri and Bill Steinkellner, with additional book material by Douglas Carter Beane, lyrics by Glenn Slater and music by Oscar and Tony-winning composer Alan Menken (Newsies, Beauty and the Beast, Little Shop of Horrors, and many more).
Filled with powerful gospel music, outrageous dancing and a truly moving story, Sister Act leaves audiences breathless. A sparkling tribute to the universal power of friendship – Sister Act is reason to rejoice.
Sister Act is brought to South Africa by the City of Joburg in association with MNet and is on The Mandela auditorium at Joburg Theatre.
The show will run from Tuesdays to Fridays at 8pm, Saturdays at 3pm and 8pm and Sundays at 2pm.
Details: www.joburgtheatre.com, 0861 670 670.
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