When you think of nuns; musical numbers, witness protection and zany adventures may not be the first things that leap to mind. That is, unless you’ve seen Sister Act. Thanks to that glorious film, a personal favourite of mine, I Imagine every single nun in the world to be either a choral powerhouse or Maggie Smith.

There is so much that makes Sister Act one of the greatest films ever made, it has great songs, it has Whoopi, it has nuns, and you can watch it with your grandmother without feeling uncomfortable. Sister Act is cinematic genius, it can’t be denied, that film should have won Oscars, armfuls of ‘em. The sequel…even better, but that’ll have to be a whole separate blog.

I know that deep down, in your heart of hearts, you think it as well. The antics of Delores Van Cartier and her nunny chums are heart-warming, family-friendly, life-affirming stuff, just look at all those hyphens, you can’t argue with that many hyphens. At the moment, when the whole world seems enveloped by doom and gloom that’s just what we need; something chirpy, sweet and familiar. Serious shows about serious things are all well and good, but right now I think the West End needs a nice big spoonful of musical nuns and that’s what it’s about to get.

Yes ladies and gentlemen, now is the time, this is the hour; it’s finally almost here. Sister Act: The Musical might make it to the West End. The good old Daily Mail has reported that the show intends to set up shop in June 2009 at the London Palladium after the current production of The Sound of Music ends its run in early 2009.

Exciting, nay, thrilling news I’m sure you agree, but wait ladies and gents, it gets far FAR better. The show features a 1970s R&B influenced soundtrack composed by Alan Menken, the genius behind Disney’s Beauty and the Beast and The Little Mermaid!

It must be said that Sister Act’s path to the West End has not been easy, the show has had mixed reviews and has been reworked considerably. With a second West End workshop planned with Mamma Mia! choreographer, Anthony Van Laast, on board things seem to be finally progressing in the right direction, straight towards the Palladium. No word on the performers involved just yet but I assure you dear reader, as soon as I know, you’ll know.

Until then here’s a little something to whet your appetite for all things Sister Act, I dare you not to smile when you listen to this gem.