Robin Craig, known for her roles in “Anne & Gilbert” (Harbourfront Theatre) and “Anne of Green Gables – The Musical” (Charlottetown Festival) will portray the Mother Superior, Sister Mary Regina. She is a feisty, robust, quick-witted soul who can’t resist the spotlight and knows how to get a laugh. She tries to convince you that she is strict but everyone knows that her “bark is worse than her bite.”
Second in command Sister Mary Hubert will be played by Marlene Handrahan, formerly of “Hairspray” (Charlottetown Festival), “Mamma Mia” (U.S. tour) and “Fascinating Ladies” (Harbourfront Theatre.) As Mistress of the Novices, she teaches the ground rules and is supposed to be dignified, but she’s also in competition with Mother Superior, and with the slightest bit of encouragement, is ready to kick up her heels.
Another former “Anne & Gilbert” cast member, Brieonna Locche, will play Sister Robert Anne, a tough, streetwise nun from Brooklyn, N.Y., who is a constant source of aggravation for the Mother Superior but adored for her heart of gold.
Natalie Sullivan, also from “Anne & Gilbert,” plays the part of sweet and innocent puppet-wielding Sister Mary Amnesia, who lost her memory after a crucifix fell on her head. She can’t remember her past, so she looks at each new day with childlike joy.
Making her Harbourfront Theatre and P.E.I. debut, with ballet slippers in tow, is Natalia Gracious in the role of Sister Mary Leo. A professional dancer before entering the convent, she is always eager to display her talent. She is young, impressionable and determined to be the first ballerina nun.
Directed by Catherine O’Brien, with musical direction by Leo Marchildon, “Nunsense” is presented by special arrangement with Samuel French Inc. It previews at the Harbourfront Theatre on Wednesday and runs from Aug. 2 to 30, Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at the box office and at harbourfronttheatre.com.
