Civic Theater has staged a joyously jubilant celebration with it production of "Sister Act," now on stage through March 12 at the 19th Street Theater, 527 N. 19th St., Allentown.
When aspiring singer Deloris Van Cartier witnesses a murder by her gangster boyfriend, the police put her in witness protection in the safest place they can think of - a convent.
Deborah DHaiti is memorable as Deloris, a wannabe diva who unexpectedly discovers a community among the nuns. 
DHaitis Deloris is sassy and smart as she lends her big voice to songs like She gives plenty of sass and her big voice to songs like "Fabulous, Baby!" and "Take Me to Heaven." She displays the characters vulnerability on the touching title song.
Tracy Ceschin is outstanding as the stern Mother Superior who is conflicted, but still compassionate. Her powerful voice shines, particularly on "Here Within These Walls" and "Haven't Got a Prayer."
Keith Miller is Deloris boyfriend Curtis Jackson, who sets the plot in motion with his menancing "When I Find My Baby."
As Curtis trio of bumbling henchmen, Dominique Shelby, Bob Trexler and Diego Subero are hilarious. The three men prove themselves great physical comedians throughout the show and turn it up a couple notches on "Lady in the Long Black Dress," in which theyeach imagine how their own questionable allure will tempt the nuns.
As the police officer who is in charge of protecting Deloris, Justan Parkers Eddie Souther is beleaguered but well-meaning. His big moment comes in the earnest but humorous number "I Could Be That Guy" which features funny and clever costume changes.
Nina Elias is sweetly appealing as the young postulate Sister Mary Robert, who at first is almost painfully shy and slowly comes out of her shell as she finds her voice. Elias impressive belt is showcased in her song "The Life I Never Led."
Melissa Klausner is bubbling over with joy as the eternally upbeat Sister Mary Patrick. She is a delight as she leads the nuns in the terrific "It's Good to Be a Nun."
Trish Kane Steele is also memorable as the gravel-voiced Sister Mary Lazarus. Steeles nun is somber and starchy, which makes it even more rewarding when she breaks into a rap.
Dan Becker adds a solid note as the affable and practical Monsignor OHara.
But it is the nuns who steal the show with their exuberant group numbers in which they harmonize, dance, sway and clap on gospel-inspired songs like "Raise Your Voice," "Sunday Morning Fever" and "Spread the Love Around."
In addition to Elias, Klausner and Steele, the nuns include Julie Valenzuela, Marie Ann Suter, Alexis Cooper, Maya Costanzo, Christy Dunbar, Maggie Fajardo, Miki Fuentes, Deja Frazier, Peaches Gordon, Sam Levisay, Nina Metrick, Grace Nyberg, Julia Urich and Lauren Verna.
Will Morris direction is crisp and brisk, and Deena Lins choreography is energetic and eye-catching.
The set by Luke Blomstrom cleverly uses the stages proscenium to suggest a church, and projections by Rick Frendt create the streets of Philadelphia, as well as the stained glass interior of the church.
The March 5 performance will be presented with an ASL interpreter in front of the left side seating section of the theater.
Performances are 7:30 p.m. Feb. 24-25, March 3-4 and 9-11; and 2 p.m. Feb. 26, March 5, 12.
Tickets are $34 and $29 for adults; $32 and $27 for seniors and $13 and $10 for children age 13 and up. There will be a "Pay What You Can" performance March 9.
For information, call 610-432-8943 or go to civictheatre.com.