Nun-stop laughs: 'Sister Act' at Cocoa Village Playhouse raises the roof and your spirits

In a blaze of costumes and a chorus of gospel harmonies, Cocoa Village Playhouse brings to life a toe-tapping, soul-stirring production of the popular musical "Sister Act." The show opens Friday, Nov. 17 for a run through Dec. 3.

"Sister Act" is a heartwarming musical comedy inspired by the 1992 film starring Whoopi Goldberg. This stage adaptation adds joyful tunes to an already fun plot.

The story revolves around Deloris Van Cartier, a nightclub singer who finds herself in a predicament. After witnessing a crime, she is forced into witness protection and hidden away in the last place anyone would think to look for her: a convent.

From there, the hilarity ensues as Deloris tries to blend in with the nuns. Along the way, she transforms the tone-deaf choir into a musical powerhouse while dodging her murderous ex.

Director Nathaniel Knepper-Quijano says this production takes the familiar story and adds an additional dash of flair.

"While it retains the essence and core storyline of the film, it also brings its own unique charm and energy to the story," Knepper-Quijano said.

"The positive, inspiring, and enlightening messages of this show are all things that can resonate with everyone."

The lead role of Deloris Van Cartier, made famous in the movie by Whoopi Goldberg, is played by Brittany Pino.

"Brittany brings an incredible warmth and light to our cast, infusing the entire theater with joy, camaraderie and professionalism," Knepper-Quijano said. "A playhouse veteran, Brittany served in the United States Navy, started a family, and is now back home at the theatre sharing her glorious talents with audiences again."

The musical numbers are infectious, and it's impossible not to be moved by the spiritual and emotional journey these characters undertake.

"Just like the film, the musical is filled with soulful gospel and catchy Motown-inspired songs that will have you tapping your feet and clapping your hands," Knepper-Quijano said. "One major difference is that this music is all new, written by beloved and world famous composer Alan Menken."

"I leave rehearsal everyday with a different song stuck in my head, because they are all catchy, powerful, and so well written," he added.

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"Sister Act" isn't just about heavenly voices; it's also packed with comedy, witty one-liners and slapstick moments.

"The characters in 'Sister Act' are both relatable and larger-than-life," said Knepper-Quijano. "Audiences will find themselves laughing out loud at the witty dialogue and comedic situations."

"I have heard these punch lines hundreds of times in rehearsal, and I still find myself breaking out into laughter," he added.

"There's nothing like directing in an environment that is full of laughter and positivity, and it's been a reminder of just how much joy live theater can bring as well as the sense of community it can create."

As for the costumes, get ready to be wowed.

"Our costume designer, Daniel Hill, has been hard at work creating a multitude of new costumes for this production," said Knepper-Quijano. "With the help of his dedicated team of volunteers, they have sewn over 400 yards of sequins for the nuns alone to bring the razzle dazzle of their show stopping numbers to life."

"Sister Act" is the feel-good musical we all need right now. The show is a testament to sisterhood, redemption and the power of music to bring people together, packaged with humor and heart.

"'Sister Act' is not just a joyful celebration of music and sisterhood," said Knepper-Quijano. "It also carries messages of unity, acceptance, charity, gratitude and the power of love – all of which perfectly align with the spirit of the holiday season."

"Come be a part of a heartwarming, laughter-filled experience that's perfect for the Thanksgiving holiday, or simply a great night out," he said.

If you go

'Sister Act'

Where: Cocoa Village Playhouse, 300 Brevard Ave., Cocoa

When: Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m. through Nov. 30

Tickets: Start at $35 for adults, $33 for seniors, students and active military, and $23 for children

Info: 321-636-5050

On the web: cocoavillageplayhouse.com

Christina LaFortune is the Entertainment and TGIF Editor at FLORIDA TODAY. Follow her on Facebook at facebook.com/christinalafortune or send her an email at clafortune@floridatoday.com.

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This article originally appeared on Florida Today: 'Sister Act' on stage at Cocoa Village Playhouse