Who knew catechism could be so fun?

"SISTER'S CHRISTMAS CATECHISM," Broadway Across America, Rose Wagner Center, through Dec. 14 (801-355-2787); running time: 1 hour, 50 minutes (one intermission)

Not being Catholic, I wasn't sure what to expect from "Sister's Christmas Catechism," the Broadway Across America touring production that opened Tuesday at the Rose Wagner Theatre.

But if catechism is always that much fun, sign me up!

First things first, you do not need to be Catholic to get the jokes or find it funny. Sister Marie Christina gently talks to and playfully jabs at the Protestants, Mormons and Jews in the house, saying, "No, it's OK, we're all going to heaven. Your seat won't be as good as mine, but we're all going."

The show, or in this case class, is filled with quick one-liners: jabs at how someone is dressed, the fact that someone else came in late, and, heaven forbid, your cell phone rings. Class is in session and Sister is a no-nonsense type of nun.

Playing Sister in this one-woman show must be an overwhelming proposition. Not only must you memorize close to two hours of material, you need to know it so well that you can interrupt yourself frequently and at any moment to discipline a wayward student, have witty improvised interaction and then get back on track to move the class forward.

Denise Fennell is wonderful, if not brilliant, in the role. Delightfully hard-nosed, she will strike fear into any gum-chewer's heart. She's sassy, funny, disciplined and warm. She knows the material cold and was able to handle any comment from the crowd and, at one point, a microphone malfunction, with ease.

But this is a tricky show to review since it really is different every night — it relies heavily on audience interaction. The house lights never dim, allowing Sister to call on, ask questions of and confiscate water bottles of anyone in the audience — including the often overlooked balcony.

The opening night crowd seemed very responsive, with many audience members winning prizes such as a large candy cane or a "Happy Birthday Baby Jesus" kaleidoscope. The folks there in groups seemed to have the most fun, as they were able to egg each other on, creating fun interactions for everyone.

The pacing clips along until the beginning of the second act where it slows just a bit and I found myself anxious to have more of Sister raising her eyebrow at my classmates.

Other than a few slow moments, it was a fun night, and everyone seemed to be having a great time — and remembering the real reason for the season. Thank you, Sister.

Sensitivity rating: Double meaning in the use of "ass" when talking about "the ox and ass are lowing," though not in a vulgar manner. Take note: The show is different every night, though I think a nun can be trusted.

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E-MAIL: ehansen@desnews.com