What’s a group of ladies supposed to do when they need to raise a large sum of money in a hurry?  Why, put on a zany benefit revue, of course!
That’s exactly what Ellinwood Community Theater is doing by staging the hit musical comedy “Nunsense” to help kick off their town’s After Harvest Festival next week.  The group, in association with Ellinwood High School, will perform the show at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 18 and Thursday, July 19 in the Ellinwood High School Auditorium.
“Nunsense” begins when the Little Sisters of Hoboken discover that their cook has accidentally poisoned 52 of their fellow sisters, and they are in dire need of funds for the burials. The sisters decide that the best way to raise the money is to put on a variety show, so they take over the school stage (conveniently already set for an upcoming production of “Grease.”)
The audience first meets stern but loveable Reverend Mother Regina (Sharon Sturgis), Sister Mary Hubert, the Mistress of the Novices (Jean Doll), and the enthusiastic Sister Robert Anne (Marie Henderson).  
Sister Mary Leo (Lauren Spare) is a novice nun and wannabe ballerina, and the delightfully wacky Sister Mary Amnesia (Meredith Duling) lost her memory when a crucifix fell on her head.  Three of the Pink Ladies from “Grease” (Hannah Billinger, Hannah Maddy, and Stephanie Troyer) join the nuns for a special appearance.
Featuring star turns, dancing, and comic surprises, “Nunsense” has become an international phenomenon with more than 5000 productions worldwide, and has been translated into 21 languages.  
The show is directed by Julie Ann Jacobs with technical direction by Leon J. Sobba.  Admission is $5, and tickets can be purchased at the Ellinwood School/Community Library, Kimple Furniture, Community Bank of the Midwest, from cast members, or at the door.