Northants singer-songwriter takes to stage for lead role in Sister Act show

A singer-songwriter from Northampton who has performed with pop stars, dance orchestras and jazz collectives has taken to the musical theatre stage for the first time

Nerissa Simmone is performing the lead role in Sister Act for a run of dates at The Core theatre in Corby.

Nerissa taking part in rehearsals for Sister Act.placeholder image
Nerissa taking part in rehearsals for Sister Act.

The musical is based on the much-loved film starring Whoopi Goldberg and follows Deloris Van Cartier, a nightclub singer who is placed in witness protection in a convent after seeing a crime.

What unfolds is an uplifting story about friendship, finding your place and the power of music to bring people together.

Nerissa taking part in rehearsals for Sister Act.placeholder image
Nerissa taking part in rehearsals for Sister Act.

Nerissa, said: “It’s been such a special experience stepping into musical theatre for the first time.

“Deloris is such a vibrant character and her journey of growth and connection has been really lovely to explore.

“Being able to do this in a show that celebrates community and music and to perform it so close to where I grew up, makes it even more meaningful.”

Nerissa, who grew up in Northampton, is a professional vocalist and has worked with the likes of Pixie Lott, Jazz Colossus and the Symphonica Orchestra.

The cast of Sister Act.placeholder image
The cast of Sister Act.

She added: “It’s my first time performing in musical theatre and stepping into such an iconic role has been both exciting and a huge learning curve.”

The show has been in the works since September last year and also features an original score by Alan Menken whose work spans everything from Disney classics to Little Shop of Horrors.

Sister Act the Musical takes place at The Core at the Corby Cube until Saturday, April 11. Tickets cost from £10 and are available via:

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