Since its premiere in 2004, the stage adaptation of Mary Poppins has gone on to record-breaking productions around the world, gaining over 50 major international awards, including two Olivier Awards and one Tony Award.
Now Birmingham audiences once again have the chance to be swept up in that magic as the world’s favourite nanny descends onto the Hippodrome stage, courtesy of Cameron Mackintosh and Disney Theatrical Group.
P.L. Travers’ iconic character brings with her a breath of fresh air as she breezes in – with the help of her trademark umbrella – to Number 17 Cherry Tree Lane to restore harmony in the Banks household.
Stefanie Jones and Jack Chambers triumph as lead characters Mary and Bert, treading the boards in shoes previously filled by the iconic Julie Andrews and Dick van Dyke in the much-adored 1964 movie of this show.
In fact Stefanie’s wit, warmth and poise is deliciously reminiscent of Andrews’ multi-award-winning Poppins, while still managing to bring something new to the role. She showed a commanding stage presence and, coupled with her vocal and dancing talents, proved herself to be a true all-rounder. I think it’s what they call a ‘triple threat’ in theatre parlance.
Young Olive Harris and Oliver Benson shone brightly in their stage spotlights as children Jane and Michael Banks. Indeed Oliver made the most of his script’s witty one-liners to attract some of the biggest laughs of the night.
Stephen Mear and Matthew Bourne’s breathtaking choreography, Bob Crowley’s enchanting set design and Paul Kieve and Jim Steinmeyer’s special effects combine perfectly with Disney’s classic score, which includes timeless top-tappers such as Jolly Holiday, Step in Time, Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious, Chim Chim Cher-ee, A Spoonful of Sugar and Feed the Birds. There’s also new songs by the Olivier award-winning British team of George Stiles and Anthony Drewe – to enjoy.
New and adapted scenes mean you should not expect a carbon copy of the film. But fear not, as they do not detract from the appeal of the show, in fact some may say, they enhance it.
Incredible stagecraft and choreography ‘elevate’ this stunning theatre show to even greater heights – no spoilers here, but you’re in for quite the treat!
This latest production of Mary Poppins is a sheer joy from start to finish and is emphatically a must-see for all ages this summer – a beautiful reminder of musical theatre at its most marvellous and magical.
There really is only one word for it – ‘Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!’
Mary Poppins plays at the Birmingham Hippodrome until 23rd August. Tickets can be booked at www.birminghamhippodrome.com or by calling 0121 689 3000.
