The New Venture Players proved once again that musical theatre is very much alive and kicking in Newport when, playing to a packed auditorium, their latest production, Sister Act, was awarded a standing ovation even before they began their finale.

The society hold no fear, growing in strength and depth with each production and this time the largely female-led cast wasted no time in demonstrating that boy! these sisters can sing.

The production team of Gordon Collins, Becky Philips, Ben Hurley and Brian Weir seem to know instinctively how to get the best from their performers, and each and every member of a large cast provided a measured, polished and extremely up-beat performance.

Alex Reynolds was nothing short of divine in the lead role of Deloris/Sister Mary Clarence, her energy and versatility setting the bar from which the others followed.

Claire Willavise lent serenity to her role of Mother Superior while Megan Postle played Sister Mary Robert with innocence, her solo, The Life I Never Led, being a show-stopper.

Keeping it in the family, Deb Postle again showed her natural instinct for comedy in a hilarious portrayal of choir leader Sister Mary Lazarus, her performance perfectly complemented by the talented Rebecca Evans as Sister Mary Patrick.

Not to be out-done, Deloris’ one time boyfriend Curtis (Ross McDonnell) and his gang provided more humour (along with showing a mean talent for disco!) as did the insuppressible Ben Hurley, in an emotive performance as Eddie.

Heart-warming, up-lifting and extremely good fun. You have until Saturday to catch up with it.