Nunsense II The Second Coming

The Second Coming…… is worth the wait! “Nunsense II”

Critic from members of the Theatre Assocn of SA

From the opening sequence, this delightful follow-up to the hit musical “Nunsense”, radiated warmth and laughter in a chilly Chapel Theatre. For those who have seen the original, this sequel is just as funny. The same five nuns are at it again - back for what is billed as a “Thank You Program” for attending their original Fund Raiser Concert. And what is more, you don’t have to be Catholic to really appreciate the fantastic humour.
Staged on a colourful minimalist “Mikado” set, Fred Wheeler in his first directorial effort, kept the show sparkling along at a snappy pace, to the obvious enjoyment of a near full house. If the audience is any indication, this production is a resounding success – all joining in whenever asked to. Especially in the Catholic Bingo game and singing-along with “What a Catastrophe”.
Stellar performances were given by the divine Mother Superior, Sister Mary Regina (Jody Arthur) and the Mistress of the Novices, Sister Mary Hubert (Jennette Mickan), who gave their all. The absolute highlight being the hilarious Sake drinking sequence. Ms Arthur also shone in her spectacular “high-wire” act “The Biggest Still Ain’t Best”, as did Ms Mickan in her rendition of “What Would Elvis Do?”
The never-ending one-liners kept everyone in stitches – eg. “If you’ve got the cheese, we’ve got the ham!”, “I’d rather have a bottle in front of me, then a frontal lobotomy”, “It was electrifying! No it was shocking” etc.
Sister Robert Anne (Lyn Wheeler) opened the second act with some “Habit Humour” including clever manipulation of her headgear, then lead the cast in the hysterical "We're The Nuns to Come To" sequence, with Mother Superior making clever use of a Rickshaw to create fantastic comedy business.
Christine Starkey as Sister Mary Paul, formerly Sister Mary Amnesia – (she lost her memory when a crucifix dropped on her head), entertained as “The Country Nun” where she told us how she wanted to be a country singer – complete with red sequined Scapular, sparkling cowboy boots and hat. Her skills as a ventriloquist also shone through.
Although lacking a little in choreography, glimmers showed through in Sister Mary Leo’s “The Prima Ballerina” on roller skates, performed by Chanelle Tipler and the cast’s rendition of “A Hat and Can Song” and “Yes We Can” can-can routine.
The other cast member was the Convert Handy Man (Michael Hoskin), who proved yet again that minor roles can still be scene stealers.
A special favourite scene of mine was the fund-raiser of the ‘Catholic Book of Gift Giving’, complete with how-to-make kits.
The band, led by Brother Peter Murphy, played with gusto, keeping the show flowing at a rollicking pace. And the sound and lighting worked well within the limitations of the venue.
“NUNSENSE” is habit forming! AMEN!
DonÂ’t miss this wonderful, fun-filled show. The writer and party, heartily agreed this was indeed, well worth the trip up from Adelaide.
Congratulations to all concerned.