Nunsense

To start, let me clarify that when you walk into the theater, what you're about to see is certainly not a religious interpretation of the beloved musical Grease by nuns. Originally debuting Off-Broadway, the play currently at Drury Lane Theatre, "Nunsense," a charming musical created by Dan Goggin, has inspired numerous sequels and spin-offs over the years. Under the direction of E. Faye Butler, this beloved 1980s classic has been revitalized into a refreshing 2026 rendition that breathes new life into its lovable story and memorable characters. This beloved production about the Little Sisters of Hoboken, inspired by a joke gift and by his childhood teachers, is an internationally popular, hilarious musical farce that features five nuns staging a show to raise money after 52 of their sisters are accidentally poisoned by a bad batch of vichyssoise soup. The play comedy takes a dark twist when the surviving nuns, who were only able to raise enough money to bury 48 of their fallen sisters, contemplate why the Reverend Mother, Sister Mary Regina, splurges some of the leftover funds on a new plasma TV. The entertaining dark comedy begins when they lack the funds to bury the final four sisters, who are being stored in the convent's freezer.

The story combines dark and quirky comedy, showcasing each of the five remaining nuns and their unique talents. The cast features Aurora Boe, Sister Mary Leo, a young novice determined to become the world's first professional nun ballerina. Rachel Carreras plays Sister Robert Anne, a tough-talking nun from Brooklyn who dreams of being a theatrical star. Kelly Felthous is Sister Mary Amnesia, a nun who lost her memory after a crucifix fell on her head. Cory Goodrick portrays Sister Mary Regina, the feisty Reverend Mother and former circus performer, and Sherriese Hamilton is Sister Mary Hubert, the Mistress of Novices, who envisions herself as the next Reverend Mother. Despite the endless squabbles, this family of sisters stands united in their fierce loyalty to one another, proving that no amount of bickering can break the bonds of sisterhood. All the actors delivered engaging performances; however, Kelly Felthous, who played the scatter-brained Sister Mary Amnesia, was truly phenomenal, with a lovely puppet scene that truly captivated a young girl seated in front of us. Rachel Carreras, as Sister Robert Anne, was outstanding, captivating the audience with her exceptional talent. The play features an all-female orchestra, with conductor Charlotte Rivard-Hoster dressed as one of the sisters.

Director E. Faye Butler, renowned for her extraordinary vocal talent, brings together five incredible sisters, each with an exceptional voice. Embracing her gospel roots, Butler elevates the intensity of songs like "Holier Than Thou," powerfully performed by Sharriese Hamilton, and "I Want to Be a Star," passionately sung by Rachel Carreras. These performances resonate deeply, inspiring the audience and providing a memorable theatrical experience.

As storm clouds gathered ominously over Drury Lane Theatre, the audience turnout was understandably sparse, with many seats left unfilled. However, the absence of people did little to dampen the Little Sisters of Hoboken's performances at Mt. Saint Helen's School Auditorium. With their nun costumes and enthusiasm, they provided two hours of lively Catholic merriment—a delightful experience that far surpassed any ordinary catechism class or bingo night. Their wit, charm, and heartfelt musical numbers filled the theatre with laughter and joy, despite the impending weather outside. The stage setup, resembling a Grease-style musical, is used throughout the production and features a jukebox, movable soda fountain stools, and the front grille of a 1948 Ford De Luxe convertible.

Despite the audience's enjoyment of the production, Nunsense is a light, frothy play with no cohesive plot, flimsy narrative, and, even with Butler's filtering out some of the lag, tightening the comedic rhythm, and creative, upbeat song arrangements to carry the play, she can't make up for its lack of depth, dated audience participation quizzes, and unmemorable musical numbers. Still, Nunsense is a delightful, family-friendly play that offers a fun-filled evening with five comical and charismatic nuns, making it worth the price of a ticket.

⭐⭐⭐

Drury Lane Theatre

NUNSENSE

Book, Music, and Lyrics by Davis Goggin

Directed by E. Faye Butler

June 10-August 2, 2026

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