Comedian Denise Fennell brings one-woman show back to Newton roots

Denise Fennell is bringing a familiar character back to her hometown for the first time in three decades. The Newton, Massachusetts, native stars in "'Til Death Do Us Part: Late Nite Catechism," a one-woman comedy show that has not played in Boston since 1995.

Fennell has portrayed the character Sister for nearly 17 years. She learned the role from Maripat Donovan, who created the show and performed it at the Charles Playhouse 31 years ago. Fennell recalls Donovan’s simple instruction during training: "Be a nun." The advice felt intimidating at first, but Fennell says she has since found her own voice in the part.

The production relies heavily on audience participation. Fennell explains that the show is only partly scripted. "Every night's different because it's like somewhat scripted and somewhat interactive, so the audience really drives the story for us," she said. She notes that the Boston crowd has been fully engaged from the moment they enter the room, creating unpredictable moments during each performance.

Fennell describes Sister as a tough New Englander who reflects the local spirit. "I think Boston girls are hardcore, right? We have to survive seasons, and that's not, you know, there's some grit to us," Fennell said. She also offered advice to other performers: "Believe in yourself. And hopefully, when you don't, you find people like Maripat that believe in you."

The show is currently running at the Charles Playhouse in Boston. Tickets are available through November 22. A holiday version titled "Sister's Christmas Catechism: The Mystery of the Magi's Gold" will open on November 27 and run through January 3.