Get ready for a night of soulful songs, dazzling performances, and non-stop laughter as Sister Act lights up the stage at QPAC!
The Brisbane Travel Guide acknowledges the Turrbal and Yuggera people, the Traditional Custodians of the land on which QPAC is situated. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging, and recognise their continued spiritual and cultural connections to Country. Always was, always will be, Aboriginal land.
Brisbane’s theatre scene just got much more exciting, with Sister Act hitting the stage at QPAC!
This high-energy musical, based on the beloved 1992 film, delivers a perfect mix of comedy, uplifting music, and dazzling performances. Whether you’re a fan of the movie or just love a feel-good show, Sister Act is guaranteed to have you clapping along and leaving the theatre with a smile.
But does it live up to the hype? Here’s our take on this divine production.
We were paying customers at Sister Act, so you can rest assured that our review is 100% unbiased.
This post may contain compensated links. Please refer to our disclaimer here for more information.
The Show
Award-winning musical Sister Act is a vibrant and uplifting story about an unlikely friendship between disco diva Deloris Van Cartier and a group of quirky nuns.
After witnessing a crime, Deloris finds herself in protective custody at a convent, where she shakes things up with her infectious energy and powerhouse vocals.
Packed with dazzling choreography, soulful gospel-inspired music, and laugh-out-loud moments, Sister Act is a feel-good spectacle that keeps the audience entertained from start to finish.
Sister Act features an original score by Tony and eight-time Academy Award winner Alan Menken, known for his work on Aladdin, The Little Mermaid, and Enchanted. Infused with the spirit of Motown, vibrant disco beats, and soulful melodies, this dynamic soundtrack brings a fresh and infectious energy to the stage—guaranteed to become a new favourite for musical lovers.
The standout number, Raise Your Voice, is a true showstopper, bringing the house down with its electrifying harmonies and high-energy performance.
From comedic chaos to heartfelt transformations, the musical delivers a perfect mix of humour, heart, and uplifting messages about sisterhood and self-discovery.
While the show is lighthearted and family-friendly, it does include themes of crime and redemption. However, with its infectious energy and positive message, Sister Act is a fantastic choice for audiences of all ages. I took my teen to see it and she absolutely loved it!
The Cast
The Brisbane production of Sister Act boasts an outstanding cast that brings the beloved film to life with energy, charisma, and powerhouse vocals.
The phenomenal Casey Donovan leads the show in her very first leading lady role as Deloris Van Cartier. Donovan has a commanding stage presence, infectious energy, and soulful voice, making her the perfect fit for the role. Her rendition of Raise Your Voice is an absolute showstopper.
Like most of us, I first saw Donovan as a shy schoolgirl on Australian Idol back in 2004, but since then, I’ve been lucky enough to see her showcase her versatile talent in numerous theatrical productions, including roles such as Mama Morton in Chicago in 2019 and as Judy Bernly in the 2022 production of 9 to 5 The Musical.
At the end of the show, when she came out for her bow and applause, I felt like a proud mumma – she was phenomenal, and I don’t think this will be the first time we see Donovan in a lead role.
Alongside Donovan, Genevieve Lemon shines as the strict yet lovable Mother Superior. She delivers a performance filled with both wit and warmth, creating a compelling dynamic with Deloris that adds depth to the show.
Theatre royalty Rhonda Burchmore makes a standout appearance as Sister Mary Lazarus, while the supporting cast of nuns brings endless humour and heart.
Some of my personal favourites were Bianca Bruce as the sweet and spirited Sister Mary Robert, whose stunning vocals soar in The Life I Never Led, and Sophie Montague as the hilariously sassy Sister Mary Patrick, who keeps the audience laughing throughout.
The ensemble is equally impressive, filling the stage with energy, precise choreography, and joyful harmonies. The costume design, from sequined habits to retro-inspired ensembles, adds a splash of fun and flair, perfectly complementing the vibrant set design that brings the convent and nightclub scenes to life.
From start to finish, this talented cast delivers a performance that is as heartfelt as it is entertaining, ensuring Sister Act is a must-see musical event in Brisbane.
Important Cast Note:
If you want to see Donovan shine, note that Gabriyel Thomas performs the role of Deloris Van Cartier for all Sunday performances at 6 pm.
Tickets
Sister Act is playing at QPAC in Brisbane now until 15 March. Tickets range in price from $70 to $210.
We had side seats in row A on the floor – just a few rows from the front. These are among my favourite seats to watch any show in the Lyric threatre. The reason is they are cheaper than sitting in the middle seats in the front rows, but you can see fabulously.
We paid just $79.90 for these seats.
Click here to purchase tickets.
Discounted tickets are available for seniors, pensioners and full time students as well as groups of 4+ (conditions apply). Groups of 8+ get even better discounts, and groups of 8+ seniors even better again.
Click here to make a group booking.
Accessible Performances
For the hearing impaired, an Auslan-interpreted performance is on Thursday, 6 March 2025, at 7 pm.
There is also an Audio Described performance on Thursday 13 March 2025, at 7 pm. At these performances, trained Audio Describers provide a commentary with concise descriptions of actions, expressions and gestures to compliment the theatre experience for patrons who are blind or have low vision. The description is relayed via a discreet headset using radio frequency.
To book either of these above performances, it’s best to call 07 3840 7466 or email groups@qpac.com.au.
There are also wheelchair accessible seating areas. To book tickets for these areas, it is best to call 136 246.
Parking
Parking is easy at QPAC thanks to the Performing Arts Car Park (P1), accessible via Stanley Place. Parking spaces however can be limited, so often pre paid parking is your best option.
Keep in mind though, that pre paid parking is $23.65, while the standard rate is only $17.60.
There are also other car parks within the Performing Arts area in (P2) and (P3).
Other parking just a short walk from QPAC is available at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre and South Bank Parklands.
Public Transport
If taking public transport to the show:
- The nearest train station is South Brisbane Station, directly across the road from QPAC on Grey Street.
- The nearest bus station is along Melbourne Street, just at the corner of Grey Street.
- The nearest CityCat (ferry) is the South Bank stop – just a short walk along the river.
Pre-Show Meal or Drink
The surrounding areas of South Bank, Stanley Street, Fish Lane and beyond offer fantastic dining options. However, QPAC has several venues to enjoy a meal or drink before or after Sister Act.
Storytellers
The brand new Storytellers Café serves up coffee, pastries, and beautifully curated meals. Whether you’re stopping by for an early breakfast or meeting friends before a show, the café’s inviting atmosphere and all-day menu cater to all tastes and dietary needs.
With a relaxed outdoor setting that flows into Melbourne Street Green, Storytellers embraces Queensland’s love for open-air dining. The café also celebrates local creativity, featuring wallpaper by designer Anna Spiro and custom tables crafted from QPAC’s own concrete by Five Mile Radius.
Located near the Concert Hall and Lyric Theatre, Storytellers is open for pre- and post-matinee visits and evening performances—no booking required.
Sandwiches start from $14 and main meals are between $20 and $24 – offering excellent value for money.
Lyrebird
With a modern Australian menu showcasing the finest locally sourced ingredients, The Lyrebird offers an exceptional dining experience paired with impeccable service. Whether you’re starting your evening before a show or enjoying a leisurely meal, the restaurant perfectly blends elegance and warmth.
A menu highlight is a selection of signature pasta dishes crafted by Michelin-trained head chef Salvatore Rizzato from Rome, Italy. This special collaboration infuses authentic Italian flavours with a unique Queensland twist, bringing a taste of tradition with a contemporary edge.
Lyrebird features Indigenous artwork from acclaimed artists Michael Nelson Jagamara, Gloria Petyarre, and Joanne Currie Nalingu. These pieces celebrate the cultural heritage of QPAC’s location, once an important meeting place for local Indigenous communities, with themes of rivers, leaves, and storms woven into the visual narrative.
Also, before some matinee performances, Lyrebird offers a high tea for $29 or $35 per person, including a glass of bubbles.
Lyrebird is located next to the Cascade Court.
Spanish by Russell Street Wine Bar
On the ground level of the Playhouse, Spanish by Russell Street Wine Bar is perfect for a pre-show indulgence or a relaxed evening with friends. It’s a stylish venue with a menu bursting with bold flavours, refreshing Spritz cocktails, and a carefully curated wine selection.
Embracing the Spanish tradition of sharing great food, the menu features artisan cheese plates, Spanish charcuterie boards, and classic tapas like Galician Mussels, Ensaladilla, and Patatas Bravas.
Under the expertise of Chef Nathanael Hardie, who recently honed his craft while opening a restaurant in Spain, each dish brings a taste of authentic Spanish flavours infused with a contemporary twist.
Adding to the cultural experience, the venue showcases artworks by Judith Wright and Claudia Moodoonuthi as part of the ARTBANK initiative, supporting local artists and fostering creativity.
Bistro by QPAC
Located just steps from the Brisbane River in the open-air Cascade Court, Bistro by QPAC brings an exciting menu of Asian-inspired street food led by esteemed head chef Mercury Keomahavong.
The menu features standout dishes such as Grilled Barramundi with kaffir lime and panang sauce, aromatic Thai Green Chicken Curry, and the rich, melt-in-your-mouth Slow Cooked Beef Cheeks Yellow Curry. Those craving classic street food flavours can savour the Nasi Goreng, while vegetarians will love the crispy Eggplant Katsu with indulgent curry sauce.
Whether you’re stopping by for a long lunch, a pre-show meal, or a relaxed dinner, Bistro by QPAC is the perfect place to enjoy exceptional food, great company, and the stunning surroundings of QPAC’s iconic venue.
Piano Bar
For a post-theatre experience on select Fridays and Saturdays, the Piano Bar features live performances from rising Brisbane artists from the Jazz Music Institute and Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University. Guests can enjoy a curated blend of jazz, musical theatre, and more in an intimate, sophisticated setting.
Sip on a handcrafted cocktail from our rotating seasonal menu, or indulge in one of our signature favourites, like the timeless Espresso Martini or a crisp, refreshing Negroni.
Our curated selection of local wines, beers, ciders, and spirits ensures something for every taste, with non-alcoholic options also available, including barista-made coffee and tea.
The Piano Bar is located on the ground floor in the QPAC foyer.
Theatre Bars
Outside the theatre, you’ll find bars serving various drinks and snacks. You can also pre order online cheese or antipasto plates to enjoy before or during interval.
The Lyric Theatre bars open 90 minutes before the commencement of the show.
Enjoy Sister Act: The Musical
Hopefully, you found this review on Sister Act helpful.
Why not check out some of our other reviews of things to do around Brisbane, such as the Pink Flamingo, Blanc de Blanc or Soak Bathhouse.
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