Mary Poppins: Practically Perfect, Yes Indeed
“Step In Time.” ©Disney/CML. Photo by Joan Marcus.
When we had the chance to see the touring production of Mary Poppins, we emphatically said yes, mostly for nostalgic reasons. Our VHS version of the musical staring Julie Andrews was a staple for hours of entertainment. Fast forward twenty or so years, we still know most of the songs from the Academy Award winning classic, however we weren't sure what to expect from the nationally touring version produced by Disney on Broadway.
Upon arrival at the Paramount, we squealed in delight seeing the plethora of little girls donning pig-tails and princess dresses wishing we owned something of sorts. Instead we headed straight to the bar for a special Mary Poppins drink created by the Tom Douglas team.
The opening sequence indicated we were in for treat with a pitch perfect performance of Chim im Cher-ee by Bert (Nicolas Dromard). Albeit we wished the volume was a tad louder; regardless his performance as the chimney sweeper was spot-on. Shortly after we meet the Banks family who through a series of song elicit their need for a new nanny. Magically appearing is Ms. Mary Poppins performed by Steffanie Leigh. That's the thing that impressed us during the performance, the magic of the presentation. We were wowed by the exquisite sets, often wondering "how'd they do that?" from the magic carpet bag to the speedy transitions where toys came alive in the matter of seconds. It's not often theatre rises to this level of production, especially in the days of movies revolving around special effects and technology. It's obvious the behind the scenes work to make the production is phenomenal and this night they certainly didn't miss a beat.
Perhaps watching the musical much older and a different set of eyes lead us to notice small hints of social commentary. In the movie version Mrs. Banks was a suffragist, whilst the in musical she battles being an "insignificant" housewife who must be submissive to her husband. At one point her character is described as an "ornament." On the other side of the coin, Mary Poppins exudes an air of confidence and leadership taking charge of the children, showing them another world. Leigh's performance does not disappoint through her portrayal and musical talent. We would certainly agree she's "Practically Perfect" appealing to adults and children alike. Ms. Poppins encourages the Bank children to look beyond the surface when they encounter the Bird Lady. Appearances are not always what the seem. A life lesson many of us even as adults seem to forget. During the candy shop scene which "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious" is performed we notice words such as "lexicon" interspersed into the act. Listen closely, you'll find much more than you'd think on the surface for a "children's production."
The musical is absolutely an adaptation of the original film, regardless we still found many of the familiar components. Secretly wishing it was a sing-along we wanted to hum "just a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down," instead to enjoy the voices we refrained. We watched intently, finding ourselves contemplating the magic. The finale was spectacular complete with Mary Poppins flying high above the audience and a HUGE umbrella onstage. We did find the musical 30 or so minutes too long for our liking. A few scenes seemed a bit unnecessary for the overall plot. Regardless, the production illustrated strong musical theatre at its finnest leaving us yearning to vow to see more productions. And like any Disney production, a heartwarming feel good ending. If only we had more Mary Poppins in our life.
Mary Poppins is presented by STG and Broadway Across America at The Paramount through May 29. Tickets available at stgpresents.org. For more information, please visit MaryPoppins.com
