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REVIEW: Nunsense II at Georgetown’s Palace Theatre

By Olin Meadows

The Palace Theatre's production of Nunsense II - “The Second Coming" - is a rollicking good time. Because let’s face it - there is nothing funnier than a bunch of nuns living it up!

As the title implies, the musical is the sequel to author Dan Goggin’s hit Nunsense, which

saw recent multiple productions around Central Texas to celebrate the original production’s 25th anniversary. “The Second Coming” picks up with the famed Little Sisters of Hoboken approximately six weeks after the first show's "performance with in performance," delivering the on-going saga of the cloister.

Director Ron Watson does a superb job of combining audience interaction and musical theatre. Austin's reigning Mother Superior portrayer, Melita McAtee, heads up the ensemble cast of outstanding actresses. Her creation of "Sister Mary Regina" is unrivaled by anyone -the Texas State Senate should pass a bill stating she is the only actress allowed to play this role.

Sara Burke brings grace and talent to the role of "Sister Mary Leo.” Her skill as a dancer is evident, even in a role this physically demanding - and her wonderful voice shines.

My personal favorite among the cast has to be Cathie Sheridan, who plays "Sister Mary Hubert". Sheridan’s comedic timing and beautiful smile lights the stage - and even when battling some tough cedar allergies, she can still rock the house with her powerful and booming voice.

Barb Jernigan and Michael Davis partnered to create the outstanding set, which complement the accurate and detailed costumes by tag team Romona Haass and Ronni Prior. Even the most unexpected scenes are made better by these two creative teams.

The only flaw to this show is that the curtain comes down before you know it. The production is a thrill to watch unfold, and funny even for this Baptist - 4 out of 5 Stars!

Performances continue on weekends through February 7th. Friday and Saturday shows are at 7:30 p.m., with Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. Tickets are $22 for general admission, $20 for seniors, $12 for students and active military, and $8 for children aged 15 and younger.

The Palace Theatre is located at 810 South Austin Avenue in downtown Georgetown, one half-block off the Square. For more information and reservations, call (512) 869-7469 or (512) 869-5081, or visit www.TheGeorgetownPalace.org.

(Nunsense II logo courtesy Tams-Witmark)