Needham Community Theatre will present the smash hit musical "Nunsense," which features the zany Little Sisters of Needham performing in a variety show to pay for the funerals of 52 Sisters lost to accidental food poisoning.

The show includes singing, dancing and interaction with the audience, performed by a small but talented cast of five ladies, all of whom agree that "Nunsense"'s outrageous humor makes it appealing to actresses and audiences alike. 

“It’s a fast moving, comedic show,” said Kathleen Bousquet, who plays Sister Robert Anne.

She said she has long had a secret desire to play the street-wise, spotlight-loving nun, a role for which she is resurrecting her strong native Revere accent, which she worked years to minimize in preparation for her successful bid for Miss Massachusetts in 1986.  

Several of the actresses with Catholic upbringing have also enjoyed finding the familiar presented comically, including Katie Broach, who plays Sister Mary Amnesia.

“Throughout my life, I had wonderful teachers and friends who were religious sisters. Playing a nun is my salute to them.”

However, cast and crew agree that people of all faiths will enjoy the hilarity of "Nunsense," which is off-Broadway’s second longest-running show in history and has had 5,000 productions in 21 languages worldwide.

Director and choreographer Marianne Sarazen Lonati sums up the show’s universal appeal by saying “With all the heaviness in the world today, this is a perfect outing to forget about the serious and enjoy the silliness.”

"Nunsense" will be presented Nov. 18-27 at the Needham Presbyterian Church. For tickets or information, visit www.needhamtheatre.org.