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Regional Theatre of the Palouse (RTOP) will put on “Sister Act,” a musical with nuns, singing and hilarity for all, over the next two weeks.

“Sister Act” follows the life of performer Deloris Van Cartier, who ends up in witness protection at a convent after she witnesses her mobster boyfriend commit murder.

“We knew it would be a show audiences would love,” said Michael Todd, director of “Sister Act.” “It’s quite new actually. The rights were released recently and this will be an Eastern Washington premiere. We wanted to be the first to do it.”

The Regional Theatre of the Palouse is just that, attracting talented artists from around the area, even from as far away as Lewiston, Todd said. The cast for most shows consists of a mix of people – students, actors, working professionals, people who want to make acting their career and people who use theater as a creative outlet.

RTOP doesn’t just produce stage shows, Todd said. The theatre is also a performing arts school and creative outlet for artists of all ages. Regular workshops designed to introduce people to the stage are eight weeks long, three days a week, and end in a showcase.

The stage isn’t for everyone, but that doesn’t mean people can’t get involved behind the scenes. RTOP also offers internships – from communication to costume design, Todd said.

“RTOP is always appreciative of volunteers from set construction to painting. There is a place for everyone to get involved,” he said. “We are striving to not only be a fun place, but also a place of professional development.”

In some workshops, children and their parents do theater together. The current spring workshops host participants who range in age from eight to 21-years-old, Todd said.

“The workshops serve as a stepping stone for people who want to get into the mainstage series,” he said. “They help build confidence in whatever you do, and it’s a great opportunity for people of all interests and ages.”

“‘Sister Act’ is a beautiful story about sisterhood, overcoming differences, and reconciliation and faith crises,” Todd said. “It’s not your regular show tune musical – just light and fluffy. It has a really strong message that needs to be heard and spread and has great music.”

“Sister Act” will run on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from March 30 to April 9. All shows start at 7:30 p.m., with additional Saturday and Sunday matinees running at 1:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online, by calling the box office or at the door.