Twin Lakes Playhouse’s High-Energy Production of Nunsense Delivers Big Laughs and Record Attendance

The final weekend of Twin Lakes Playhouse’s musical comedy Nunsense is here, and it’s been a standout success for the Mountain Home community theater. Running through Sunday, Nov. 24, the show has drawn record-breaking attendance, with several performances selling out early. Tickets remain available through the playhouse’s official site at tlpmh.org or by calling 870-424-0444, and audience members are encouraged to purchase in advance due to high demand.

Nunsense, which follows the misadventures of the Little Sisters of Hoboken, centers on the sisters’ frantic attempt to raise money for the burial of several fellow nuns. Their solution is to stage a variety show—one packed with songs, jokes, audience participation and a surprising amount of chaos. The Twin Lakes Playhouse cast brings every bit of that energy to the stage.

Ann Cirillo leads the group as Mother Superior Mary Regina, commanding attention with sharp comedic timing and dry humor. Her character’s questionable spending habits—including buying a flat-screen TV instead of paying for funerals—set up many of the show’s big laughs. One of the most memorable moments occurs when Mother Superior becomes unexpectedly intoxicated after smelling a tonic, launching into bold, raunchy comedy that had the audience roaring.

Sue Ostergard plays Sister Mary Hubert, the ambitious second-in-command patiently waiting for her chance at leadership. Her vocal work is a high point of the production, especially during the show’s final number. Her delivery is measured, precise and perfectly tuned to land her character’s quick, clever jokes.

Karen McKaig shines as Sister Mary Amnesia, whose forgetfulness fuels some of the funniest interactions of the night. She spends parts of the performance walking through the aisles, speaking directly with audience members, and even hosts an on-the-spot trivia game complete with “Catholic” giveaway items. Her improvisation and friendly teasing keep the crowd fully engaged.

Anna Fountain, playing Sister Mary Leo, brings impressive dance skills as she pursues her dream of becoming the first nun ballerina. Her choreography blends smoothly with the show’s comedic rhythm, adding visual flair to several scenes.

The role of Sister Robert Anne alternates between Katie Wilson and Karen Maupin. The reviewed performance featured Wilson, whose snarky, rock-inspired character brought sharp comedic edge, strong vocals and quick comebacks. Her solo moments and interactions with the audience stood out as some of the production’s most confident and charismatic pieces.

The entire show is supported by Musical Director Lerene Salisbury and an unnamed friar accompanist, both performing live throughout every number. Their coordination with the cast amplifies the humor and pacing, and Salisbury’s banter with both audience and performers adds an extra layer of charm.

Directed by Angie Cotter-Leach, returning after a six-year break from directing, Nunsense closes out Twin Lakes Playhouse’s 2024 season with what many are calling one of the funniest productions the theater has staged. The only minor snag came when Wilson’s nun habit briefly interfered with her microphone, though the technical team resolved the issue quickly.

Audience members should prepare for adult humor, good-natured poking at Catholic culture, and the possibility of becoming part of the performance themselves. Younger children may not catch most of the jokes, so parental discretion is advised.

With lively performances, sharp comedy and enthusiastic community support, Twin Lakes Playhouse’s Nunsense earns its 9.5 out of 10 rating and a well-deserved spot among the season’s highlights.