Kaz works in air traffic control. Cydney has a job in a jewellers. Katie’s career is in marketing. But these three women share a passion. You could say it’s a “calling”. For on Monday and Wednesday evenings you’ll find them singing and dancing their hearts out in rehearsals for the nun-tastic musical, Sister Act!
“I’d have happily swept the stage just to be part of this show,” says Katie. “It’s such a feelgood, uplifting musical and when you get everyone singing these gospel-style songs together, the sound in the room is amazing!“
“I love the message of the show,” says Kaz. “It’s all about acceptance and how we’re better for being different.”
Cydney believes Sister Act is a great bonding experience for the women in the cast. “A hundred per cent! We’re all different ages. This is my first show for BATS and everyone’s been so lovely and welcoming.”
The trio, all experienced dancers, have a busy show in store. As well as donning habits as the singing sisters, they also play a variety of other roles, as you’ll see when they take the stage at the Haymarket.
Putting on a show takes time and commitment. Cydney’s been living in Reading, Katie travels in from Wokingham and Kaz has childcare to juggle. But all agree it’s worth it.
Cydney Murray
Katie Schulten
Kaz McCloy
The trio in rehearsal
“You do it because you love it,” says Kaz.
“Totally,” says Katie. “I did a Performing Arts BTEC and have been in 24 hour musicals in Camberley, which were chaos! But this is the first show for a while and I’ve had time to relax and enjoy the process. Our director Louise is fantastic - I’m loving working with her and learning from her.”
“I was in Joseph, Annie and The Wiz when I was a child,” says Cydney. “But this is the first show I’ve done as an adult.”
And she has an admission. “Although I’d heard of Sister Act, I’d never even seen the film! Now I know it, I love it!”
“It’s such a happy show,” says Kaz. “It’s good for all ages and there’s something for everyone. I know it’s going to be fantastic!”
You can see Kaz, Cydney and Katie in six performances of Sister Act, which run from 17 - 21 May at the Haymarket, Basingstoke. Buy tickets online.