Sisters, Songs & Shenanigans: ‘Nunsense’ comes to Stage Door Repertory Theatre
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RIGBY — It’s a show that’s just as much hijinks as it is heavenly, and director Nick Charles says “Nunsense,” which opens Friday, is a uniquely hilarious experience. Performances begin this weekend at Stage Door Repertory Theatre at 3804 East Indian Creek Loop, Unit 6 in Rigby. Evening and matinee shows run through Sept. 26. Showtimes and tickets are available here.
“Nunsense” originally premiered off-Broadway in New York City in 1985 and has enjoyed a following among theatre buffs ever since, but Charles says it’s new to east Idaho.
“A lot of people are not familiar with this show,” he says. “I don’t think it’s ever been done in this area because there are so many people I’ve talked to who’ve never heard of it.”
The musical follows five spirited nuns as they scramble to stage a fundraising variety show after a series of unfortunate events leaves them strapped for cash. Charles says the writer, Dan Goggin, lovingly based the characters on nuns he knew as a child in Catholic school. Charles acknowledges potential similarities to the famous (and perhaps infamous) “Book of Mormon” musical, but notes that “Nunsense” is a respectful homage to religion rather than making fun of it.
“Goggin loved these women, and he wrote this show as a tribute,” Charles says. He says “Nunsense” is unique in that the actors interact with the audience for most of the performance, creating fun opportunities for the players as they respond to the audience.
“Each nun is funny in her own way,” Charles says. “They all have their own little moments throughout the show, and it’s absolutely hilarious, and there are some tender moments as well.”
Bridget Hurley plays Sister Mary Amnesia.
“She just showed up one day and couldn’t remember who she was or anything about herself other than that she is a nun, because a crucifix fell on her head, so now her memory is completely gone,” Hurley says of her character. “Throughout, she learns a lot about herself. The first time I watched the musical, her song made me cry. It’s very moving. I wasn’t expecting to have such a deep character when her name is Sister Mary Amnesia”
It’s Hurley’s first time performing at Stage Door, which opened earlier this year. She auditioned on a whim with a friend, who was also cast in the production.
“It’s the first time I’ve worked with such a small cast, and it has been so fun getting to know everyone and creating a bond with each of the sisters,” Hurley says. “This show is just so much fun and incredibly silly.”
Hurley says the audience should “expect chaos in the best way. It’s not what you would expect, but it’s a delightful surprise.”
