Nuns in musicals is always a winning formula. There's something about that combination of piety and extravagance that equals pure entertainment, and the adaptation to stage of the 90's film Sister Act is no exception.

The best stories are often born from the most ridiculous concepts. Having witnessed her gangster boyfriend commit murder, brazen wannabe singer Deloris is forced to disguise herself as a nun for her protection. Entering a convent, she manages to reinvent its choir into a gospel sensation. She thereby simultaneously saves the convent from closure, finds the true friends she never had in her reckless former life, and empowers talented women of the cloth. Meanwhile a well-meaning but unassertive cop tries to protect her from the retribution of her murderous ex. Doesn't it sound like the perfect recipe for feel-good fun?

To people who have seen and loved the film, be aware that they have collapsed the plot to its bare bones to make room for all the singing, dancing, and snappy one-liners. On the plus side, minor characters such as 'Sweaty' Eddie the policeman are given some exposition, but the result is that Deloris' transformation of herself and others, and her developing relationship with the Mother Superior, are frustratingly rushed through, diminishing the emotional sting of the closing scenes. It is also important that nuns should get groovy without losing sight of the fact that they're praising God. They can't just turn into attention-loving, booty-shaking dancers. While there is no problem putting nuns in glittery outfits for a West End show, we must remember that they are still supposed to be nuns, not showgirls.

Moral objection to glitter aside, the production really cannot be faulted. The actors were excellent, the costumes were fabulous and the choreography was original. Every song is packed with spirit, especially the hit number 'Raise your Voice'. The irresistible sight of nuns finding their boogie will warm your heart and keep your foot tapping all night long. As Deloris teaches us, the first rule of singing is to “get the rafters ringin'” and these nuns do exactly that.