Veteran Flowers Center theater actors and staff return to harness the raw talent of Ozark City and Dale County students, guiding the production to its full potential
By Jeff Devine, Dale County Chronicle
(OZARK, Ala.) — The stage came alive Thursday night as student performers from Dale County and Ozark City Schools premiered their highly anticipated production of Sister Act, delivering a spirited, crowd-pleasing performance that had the audience clapping along and rising to its feet in applause.
Originally popularized by the 1992 hit film starring Whoopi Goldberg, Sister Act has become a stage favorite for its blend of comedy, heart, and electrifying musical numbers. The local high school production captured that same magic while adding a distinctly hometown touch.
The show is presented under new direction, with Megan Hobson serving as director and Michelle Kelley as music director, assisted by Mackenzie Taylor, Drew Kelley, and Brenda Shirley, all former students of the theater program. In a statement following opening night, Shirley praised the students and the community’s response.
“Opening night went really well. We’ve had a great response from the audience,” Shirley said. “Our kids have worked hard, and we are so proud of them.”
She previously noted the special connection shared by the adult leadership team. “We have a team of adults taking the reins for the high school shows, and we are under new direction with Megan Hobson as the director,” Shirley said. “All of us are former students of the theater program, so it’s really special to come back and help guide the next generation.”
That returning experience was evident throughout opening night. Veteran Flowers Center performers and staff worked seamlessly behind the scenes, shaping the production while allowing the students’ natural charisma and developing skills to shine. The mentorship translated into confident performances, polished staging, and an ensemble chemistry that felt both disciplined and exuberant.
From polished vocals to tightly choreographed ensemble numbers, the cast delivered a high-energy, feel-good theatrical experience that radiated joy. The production moves at a lively pace, blending laugh-out-loud comedic timing with uplifting harmonies that celebrate friendship, perseverance, and the power of community. Audiences are “laughing, crying, and having a great time with this show,” Shirley said, capturing the emotional range on display throughout the evening.
Beyond the spotlight, the students have also made community involvement a priority this year. “The students have had a focus on community outreach this year,” Shirley said. “They want to give back to the community as a way to say thank you for the support.”
As part of those efforts, cast members delivered Christmas cookies and carols to downtown businesses during the holiday season. They also installed a blessing box in front of the Flowers Center and continue working to keep it stocked.
Tickets remain available for the remaining performances, but organizers urge the community not to delay. Tickets will be sold online until 4 p.m. for Friday night’s show. After that, tickets may be purchased at the door beginning at 5:30 p.m., cash or check only. Saturday’s performance is already very close to a sell-out.
“Please encourage readers not to wait to get tickets and miss their chance to see this fun show,” Shirley said.
With a strong opening night and momentum building, Sister Act continues its run as a joyful celebration of student talent, community support, and the enduring magic of live theater.
