FOR Natalie Lennox, bringing a musical to life is about much more than teaching dance moves.
The Lota resident has spent months choreographing Savoyards’ upcoming production of Sister Act, immersing herself in the music, style and culture of the era to ensure every movement helps tell the story.
While she loves the creative challenge of choreography, the 45-year-old admits her heart still belongs on the stage.
“As soon as I finish choreographing a show, I’m itching to get back to dancing in the next one,” she said.
To prepare for Sister Act, Lennox undertook extensive research, studying musical theatre productions and live performances to capture the feel of the 1970s setting.
“The Sister Act musical is set in the 1970s, unlike the movie, which is set in the 1990s, so I looked at the Motown era and disco,” she said.
“I checked the moves of the Jackson 5, Bee Gees and Supremes to give me a feel for the era.
“It’s not a traditional musical theatre piece, although there are lots of Disney-styled songs with high energy.”
For Lennox, the most rewarding aspect is ensuring the choreography feels like a natural extension of the story rather than a pause in the action.
“I don’t want to stop, dance and then come to life again. I want it to be one blend,” she said.
Casting the production was also a major undertaking, with the creative team seeking performers who could deliver both vocally and physically.
“With such a large dance show, we were looking for great dancers and great singers,” she said.
“We wanted a strong group of nuns, but also of varying ages and a balance of voices.
“That’s why the audition process was so competitive.
“But we are incredibly lucky to have such a talented cast.”
Lennox has been involved with Savoyards for 25 years as a singer, dancer and choreographer, describing the theatre company as an important part of her life beyond the stage.
“When I started, I immediately made a whole bunch of friends,” she said.
“Theatre is not only my hobby and my passion, but also my social circle.”
That support extends to her home life, with her children already developing their own views on musical theatre.
“My daughter, 10, is keen to do a show,” she said.
“My son is adamant about not going on stage, but he knows his musicals.”
As opening night approaches, Lennox hopes audiences will see not only the energy and spectacle of Sister Act, but the storytelling that underpins every song and dance number.
