Nuns on the run at Sacred Heart

Sisters were doing it for themselves, when Sacred Heart Catholic High School in Fenham staged a high-energy musical theatre production.

Students across all age groups were involved in Sister Act, taking on roles behind the scenes, as well as on stage.

Head of Performing Arts Kerrie Palma directed the show.

“We had approximately 60 students taking part from Year 7 to Year 12,” she said. “Students were involved in a variety of disciplines and roles, such as technical production, lighting, music, costumes, and stage management.

“We stage a school musical every two years. It is always a highlight in the school calendar. Productions like this provide students with opportunities to develop confidence, teamwork, and creativity, both on and off the stage.”

Based on the classic 1992 comedy starring Whoopi Goldberg, Sister Act tells the story of nightclub singer Deloris, who witnesses a mob murder and is forced to hide out in a convent, where she gives the choir a soulful makeover.

Goodness Odumade starred as Deloris in the Sacred Heart production, with other cast members including Olive McTimmins as Mother Superior, and Chloe Pramana as Monsignor O’Hara. Sister Mary Robert was played by Sophie McCorquodale; Sister Mary Patrick by Layla-May Brown; Sister Mary Lazarus by Martha Bell; Sister Mary Martin-of-Tours by Vivienne Daniels; and Sister Mary Theresa by Anna Boua.

Members of staff involved included Drama Teacher Rachel Burges, Dance Teacher Sophie Palmer, and Music Teachers Jonathan Cornish and Thos Oates, along with Rachel Curry as Stage Manager, and Mark Simpson as Performing Arts Technician.

Ms Palma continued: “The show was an evening of soulful music, high-energy dance numbers, and plenty of comedy.

“Special moments to look out for were ‘Take Me to Heaven (Reprise)’, when the newly transformed choir performs a high-energy number in the church. Also, ‘Sunday Morning Fever’, the big Act Two opening number – this combined disco, gospel, and ensemble dancing.”

The show took place across three evenings, from 7 to 9 July, in the 390-seat Rose Auditorium at Sacred Heart.

Ms Palma added: “Sister Act was a wonderful opportunity to bring together the entire Sacred Heart community. It gave families, staff, governors, and members of the local community the chance to celebrate the achievements and talents of our students.”