Mary Poppins – The Broadway Musical

The new and sparkling Broadway version of the musical Mary Poppins is a great deal of fun, with eminently singable songs that stick in your head for days afterwards, elaborate choreography, and a very talented cast and technical team.

Alinta Chidzey makes a perfect Mary Poppins, with charm and brio, a twinkle in her eyes, and total command over her role. She is particularly good in Practically Perfect.  Shaun Rennie plays Bert, the chimney sweep and many of many talents which appear to include good tap dancing, and most enjoyable characterisation. Christine Wallace plays Winifred Banks and her voice is especially delightful. Being Mrs Banks is a lovely song.

The choreography was fun, full of energy and used the stage and props very effectively. Kudos to Jacquelyn Richards the choreographer and the tap captain, Nicole Taylor. Step in Time is a thrilling dance.

Colin Milner plays George Banks with a delightful, quiet steadiness and confident voice. The mysterious Mrs Corry was played by Alicia Da Costa whose enthusiasm swept us all up into wanting to sing Supercalifragilisticexpedialidocious. Sophie Highmore is very good as the statue Neleus who comes to life in the park scene.

The sound and lighting design is imaginative and works in well with the set design. The down-stage lighting was a bit shaded which made seeing characters a bit difficult in certain areas, and radio mics had their own little moments on occasion.

This is a marvellous production that is suitable for the whole family and it should not be missed.

Rachel McGrath-Kerr