Theatre Assessment: Mary Poppins is a stunning, virtually excellent musical

It’s a chicken, it’s a aircraft, it’s Mary Poppins descending on Melbourne’s personal 17 Cherry Tree Lane for an unforgettable evening of splendour.

Tailored from the beloved writings of , Disney and current this new and improved manufacturing highlighting an all-Australian forged. The magical narrative follows Mr and Mrs Banks, who’re in determined want of a nanny that may put their two mischievous kids in line. Following the unannounced arrival of the angelic Mary Poppins, they quickly uncover their lives are being modified in additional methods than they initially accounted for.

The success of a manufacturing hinges on one key aspect – the titular efficiency. It’s with a spoonful of sugar that I say is virtually excellent in each means because the umbrella-wielding nanny. She superbly embodies the character and steals the present with each eloquently-delivered line. With the character’s trademark quirks on full show, there’s a gravitas to Stefanie’s efficiency that had me transfixed. Very like how Australia’s personal grew to become synonymous with Elphaba (on Australian excursions), I can’t see one other actor hitting this function out of the park in the way in which Stefanie Jones has right here.

Among the many supporting forged, there’s a slew of performances which might be additionally sensible and every contribute to enjoyable if the manufacturing in distinctive methods. is a refreshing bundle of charisma within the function of Bert. Not solely does he radiate positivity by way of your complete present, he’s a spectacular dancer who lights up the stage whereas slaying each dance quantity. Enjoying Michael Banks is the younger , whose enthusiastic and rascally manner is an instantaneous spotlight from the second he arrives on stage. I’d say to regulate this child as a result of he’s little question going to shine in future roles.

Aussie icon makes yet one more stage look within the twin roles of Chook Lady and Miss Andrew. Regardless of being two polar-opposite characters, she transforms herself and disappears into each roles. There is probably not an entire lot to the Chook Lady function, however Marina’s stage presence and highly effective voice is sufficient to make sure the character makes an impression.

The title Mary Poppins is synonymous with the long-lasting songs from the hit Disney movie. So it’s all of the extra necessary that they hit simply as effectively in right here. To nobody’s shock, the musical numbers each new and previous are vigorous, filled with vitality and left audiences with an ear-to-ear grin in each occasion. What impressed me most is how this musical handled quite a few it’s songs as in the event that they have been the massive crescendo on the finish of the primary act. From ‘‘ to ‘‘ and naturally ‘‘, the mix of stellar costuming and lavish choreography makes a spectacle out of every of those songs, guaranteeing you’ll be singing them lengthy into the evening.

That being stated, the bank-set scenes and musical moments are the one sections of the manufacturing I didn’t resonate with. I see how they’re related to the event of Mr Banks’ arc, although I couldn’t assist however really feel they sidetracked the general journey a tad to a lot. Nonetheless with every thing else being a surefire hit, this barely made a dent in my enjoyment.

Not many musicals have the flexibility to match the manufacturing scale of , however is up there. Minimal in some cases and sparing no expense in others, the manufacturing design is a superb achievement. Other than the 2 jaw-dropping big props, it’s the creatively-designed Banks home that’s as a lot of a personality as everybody else. From the dwelling space and the kitchen to the bed room and the rooftop, the Banks home offers off a homely vibe that provides a touch of authenticity to the manufacturing.

What’s most spectacular in regards to the set and prop design is the varied tips it had up its sleeve to simulate Mary Poppins’ magic. The creation of a set that ‘breaks down’ and places itself again collectively makes for an awe-inspiring sequence that’s as enjoyable as it’s foolish. Then there’s Mary Poppins’ trusty unending bag, through which she impossibly pulls out all types of huge objects. I wasn’t conscious I’d be getting a magic present a Mary Poppins musical within the one session, in order that turned out to be a nice shock. Talking of surprises, the brilliance pulled off that sees Mary Poppins exit the stage for the ultimate time is breathtaking – placing a cap on what’s a stunning delight of a present.

Step in time and deal with your self to this actually unmissable manufacturing. is a pleasant experience fleshed out by an immensely gifted forged and headlined by a spectacular Stefanie Jones efficiency. Flaunting the grandiose of a -level manufacturing and loaded with great surprises all through, you’re in for an evening of cheery tunes, beautiful choreography and kooky enjoyable.

FOUR AND A HALF STARS (OUT OF FIVE)

is taking part in at Her Majesty’s Theatre in Melbourne by way of to April thirtieth, 2023. For extra info and to buy tickets, head HERE.

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