Ossining High School Presents 'Sister Act'

As the curtains rose on March 20 in the Ossining High School (OHS) auditorium, Akayla Morris’s powerful voice reverberated through the audience. Portraying Deloris Van Cartier, the OHS senior delivered a masterful performance as the lead character in the OHS Drama Club’s dress rehearsal production of ‘Sister Act.’

“There's a lot of similarity in the fact that me and Deloris both love performing on stage and love being the center of attention,” Akayla remarked.

Stepping out of her comfort zone, she found inspiration in Deloris's "wild and fun" character, which encouraged her to fully embrace the role.

“There's a sense of humanity to her that I really like. And the fact that she cares so much about family and kinship is very important to me as well,” she added.

This will be the final OHS Drama Club performance for the young actress, as she prepares to graduate in June and pursue theater studies at SUNY Purchase this fall.

Joining Akalya on stage is senior Elsy Rosales, whose portrayal of Sister Mary Robert reflects her own journey as an actress.

“She’s a very shy character in the beginning and then comes out of her shell towards the end,” expressed Elsy. “And in my high school years, that is quite literally what happened to me—being this shy, little, quiet girl as a freshman but kinda popping out of my shell by senior year.”

Elsy credits her personal growth to Ossining’s theater program and highlighted how each character she’s portrayed over the years has shaped her in one way or another. With this being her biggest role yet, Elsy said she is grateful for the opportunity to be part of something that extends beyond the stage.

“I’ve created a bond with my friends, teachers, and directors. You can share personal stories and feel comfortable to talk to them about not only the show, but things that just happen in your daily life.”

For senior Sofia Rodriguez, it’s the small moments that are most significant, especially as this musical marks her final production at OHS as well.

“As corny as it sounds, it’s important to appreciate the little things, because this is my last production at OHS,” Sofia emphasized, reflecting on the camaraderie she's developed with her fellow cast members over the years.

“I've grown a lot closer with the cast, even the ones that I've known for years, we just enjoy each other's company. I've learned how to have fun with the production.”

In the musical, Sofia portrays both Tina and a member of the nun ensemble, finding it both challenging and enjoyable to transition from the glamorous and giddy to the humble role of a nun.

“I always love playing characters like that because that’s how I try to be every day.”

Ossining theater Teacher and Drama Club Director Drew DiRienzo commended the dedication of his cast and crew, noting the energy and passion they bring to each performance. Despite being only in his second year at OHS, the seasoned director has many shows under his belt from previous schools and knows talent when he sees it.

“They're giving the best performances that I have ever seen because I think they believe in the show’s message of love, kindness, and treating people with respect,” said Mr. DiRienzo.

“They want to convey that to our audience, so they're bringing that energy to it. You see it in in every aspect of this production.”

Event Details:

Ossining High School Drama Club Proudly Presents: Sister Act

Dates: Thursday, March 21st | Friday, March 22nd | Saturday, March 23rd

Time: 7:00 PM

Location: Ossining High School Auditorium, 29 S. Highland Ave., Ossining, NY 10562

Admission: Free

Limited Reserved Seating Available Online at ossiningdrama.ludus.com