When the award-winning musical Sister Act hits Adelaide in March, audiences may be surprised when they don’t hear the same tunes featured in the blockbuster movie it’s based on.
This is because celebrated composer Alan Menken had other ideas for the stage adaptation.
Menken, a highly decorated composer with an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar (eight, to be precise), and Tony Award to his name, could have used the beloved music from the film. However, he chose to create an entirely original score for the musical.
The film, released in 1992, was primarily filled with song parodies—existing hits given a humorous twist. Menken wanted a fresh approach, where the music genuinely told the story without relying on familiar songs.
Menken’s vision for the musical involved much more than simply adapting the film’s plot. He aimed to refine the dramatic arc, enhancing elements that could be sung and making the audience fully invest in Deloris’s journey (played by Casey Donovan).
The musical also features broader, more comedic portrayals of the villain and his sidekicks, along with playful nods to 1970s stylistic tropes. This is contrasted with the quiet, contemplative atmosphere of the convent, which Deloris disrupts with her lively presence.
Despite his numerous accolades and a prolific career working on everything from Little Shop of Horrors to The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, Enchanted, and even Sesame Street, Menken remains down-to-earth. He cherishes his family life with his wife of 52 years, Janice Roswick, and their two daughters, more than the trappings of fame.
Menken prefers to stay behind the scenes, enjoying the advantages of his success without the constant glare of the spotlight. For him, the joy of creating musical scores and working with great people outweighs the allure of red carpets and celebrity.
The Australian production of Sister Act, opens its four-week season at Festival Theatre on March 22. Featuring songs like ‘Take Me to Heaven,’ ‘Fabulous Baby!,’ ‘Raise Your Voice,’ ‘Sunday Morning Fever,’ and ‘Sister Act,’ this show brings a fresh energy to the stage and allows for a fabulous time at the theatre!
Listen to the soundtrack!
Don't miss Sister Act
Showing at Festival Theatre from 22 March –19 April '25
Article reproduced with permission from Aussie Theatre.