University Park, PA -- Penn State Centre Stage (PSCS) will present "Sister Act," the tale of a nightclub singer who turns a convent’s lackluster nun choir into a glitzy performing ensemble, Oct. 6-17 at the James P. and AJ Jimirro Playhouse Theatre on the Penn State University Park campus. PSCS is the professional arm of the School of Theatre in the College of Arts and Architecture at Penn State. The production is licensed by Music Theatre International.
When Deloris witnesses a murder and goes into witness protection at a local convent, she is tasked — against her will — with directing the nun choir. With humor and sheer willpower, the aspiring star turns the choir into an ensemble she can be proud of. The musical comedy, based on the 1992 hit film, features a disco-infused score by Disney film composer Alan Menken.
"Sister Act" choreographer Kikora Franklin, director of the School of Theatre and producing artistic director of PSCS, said the production is a “joyful, comical musical experience.”
“I had the pleasure of serving as choreographer for this show, which gave me one of my favorite opportunities: working closely with our students and engaging them in the creative process,” said Franklin. “One of the great joys of theatre-making, and our approach to this piece, is inviting the students’ ideas, perspectives, and energy into the room and onto the stage. The result is a vibrant celebration of community and the extraordinary talent of our students.”
In addition to Franklin, the "Sister Act" production team includes Marcus Jordan, director; Connor Crotzer Scartascini, music director; Kris Danford and Allegra Ritchie, voice and text coaches; Erik Raymond Johnson, fight choreographer; PJ Jobson, production stage manager; Marta Siverio Hernández, scenic designer; Chelsea Ann, costume designer; Sophie Sejarto, lighting designer; TJ Schultz, sound designer; and Collin Haines, technical director.
"Sister Act" will open with previews Oct. 6 and 8, followed by opening night Oct. 9, evenings Oct. 13-17, and matinee Oct. 17. Evening and preview performances start at 7:30 p.m., and matinee starts at 2 p.m. Tickets are $32/$19 student for evening performances, and $27/$19 student for previews and matinee. A pre-show reception and designer discussion will be presented Oct. 9 ($20, purchase tickets separately). Purchase tickets at the Arts Ticket Center online, via phone at 814-863-0255, or in person at Eisenhower Auditorium, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday (save $4 when ordering by phone or in person).