Our prayers to the gay gods have finally been answered – Whoopi Goldberg and Jennifer Saunders will star in a Sister Act musical

A Sister Act musical is coming to London, starring Whoopi Goldberg and Jennifer Saunders.

Whoopi Goldberg will reprise the iconic role of singer-in-hiding Deloris Van Cartier, which she first played in the original 1992 musical comedy film.

She will be joined by Absolutely Fabulous star Jennifer Saunders as Mother Superior in the production at London’s Eventim Apollo, which will run from 29 July to 30 August 2020.

Goldberg is also a producer for the newly-adapted production of the smash hit musical, which has previously played a successful run on Broadway and in touring companies around the world.

Whoopi Goldberg: ‘Deloris is a little older, a little seasoned.’

Goldberg said: “I’m coming back to London. Yes, I’m starring as Deloris Van Cartier in Sister Act the Musical. The original Deloris is back! A little older, a little seasoned, but really still kind of out there.”

Saunders joked: “I would buy tickets, but I can’t buy tickets because I’m in it. But I think this could be the event of the century. That’s all I’m saying, small thing, but THE event.”

Producer Jamie Wilson said: “It has been so exciting to work with Whoopi, Alan Menken, Douglas Carter Beane and Glenn Slater to revise and refresh Sister Act for this newly adapted production.

“This is a very special one-off opportunity created just for London to see one of the most loved actors of our time playing the part she is so famous and so loved for.

“The addition of Jennifer means that Sister Act truly promises to be the ultimate night of laughs and smiles with two comedy greats.

“I’m also thrilled that Brenda Edwards, who has been so instrumental in Whoopi agreeing to return to the stage, has been able to schedule her TV commitments so she can play Deloris on Thursday matinees.

“It really is going to be a brilliant Summer!”

Sister Act musical features original music.

The stage production features original music by Aladdin songwriter Alan Menken with lyrics by Glenn Slater, book by Bill and Cheri Steinkellner, and additional book material by Douglas Carter Beane.

A release adds: “Based on the iconic movie, this sparkling tribute to the universal power of friendship, sisterhood and music tells the hilarious story of the disco diva whose life takes a surprising turn when she witnesses a murder.

“Under protective custody she is hidden in the one place she won’t be found – a convent! Disguised as a nun and under the suspicious watch of Mother Superior, Deloris helps her fellow sisters find their voices as she unexpectedly rediscovers her own.”

Tickets are on sale now.