The FMU Theatre Program presented a performance titled “Sister Robert Anne’s Cabaret Class: A One Nun-sense Musical Event,” from Feb. 12 through Feb. 15 at the Blackbox Theatre in the Performing Arts Center (PAC) located in downtown Florence.
Directed by FMU theatre arts professor Glen Gourley, the show starred senior theatre and music major Otto Parrott as Sister Robert Anne, who teaches a cabaret performance class at Mount St. Helens in Hoboken, New Jersey, with the assistance of her partner, Sister Mary Savannah, portrayed by non-student Savannah Gaymon.
Together, they ‘taught’ the audience how to create a successful cabaret act. The performance included audience interaction, with attendees singing parts of a song with Sister Robert Anne and joining her as backup dancers. Some songs included “What Would Elvis Do” and “We Miss You Patsy Cline.”
Throughout the show, Sister Robert Anne covered various lessons, including choosing songs that fit your voice and personality, the importance of microphone technique and the role of hair, makeup and costume choices in improving performance. She also emphasized the use of pacing to keep the audience engaged.
Additionally, she explored ways to involve audiences in her performance, such as reading handwritten questions from attendees and answering them. There was also a surprise guest appearance from Sister Mary Annette, a puppet prop who doubled as a new character in the performance.
The show ended with Sister Anne discussing what it takes to be a successful performer. She emphasized the importance of having fun and not caring what others think while also reflecting on her journey. Sister Anne shared that even though she may not have become a wealthy star, she is content with her path and the satisfaction she has in performing.
Gourley shared that the script was modeled to show Otto’s talent in theatre.
“I was looking for a one-person show to feature the student enrolled in THEA 407 Special Studies,” Gourley said. “The student that is cast in the production has previously demonstrated their talent in the areas of both acting and singing. This script was a showcase for the student’s talents.”
For Parrott, portraying Sister Robert Anne was a unique and rewarding experience.
“I would have to say my favorite part of playing Sister Robert Anne was getting to fully explore her as a character,” Parrott said. “Since the show requires audience participation, some improv was required, which let me explore the character more than I normally would in a set script.”
The show’s improvisational elements also provided Parrott with valuable opportunities for further growth as a performer.
“In the future, I hope to progress in my acting career in many different areas,” Parrott said. “I believe the role gave me the ability to think on my feet and roll with the punches, which is very necessary in the acting field. Not to mention, my memorization skills improved vastly during this rehearsal Process.”
Attending sophomore pre-nursing major, Ivey Waszcuk, shared that she enjoyed the show and highlighted the interaction with the audience.
“My favorite part was the amount of engagement incorporated into the play, as well as the humorous songs,” Waszczuk said. “I would love to see a show again like this in the future.”