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Take and exceptional cast, a timeless family story, catchy songs and dazzling special effects … the result is a magical production of Mary Poppins.
The musical had its Australian premiere a t Her Majesty's Theatre in Melbourne last week and more than lived up to all the hype.
The casting of each role is excellent, led by Verity Hunt-Ballard in the title role, who combines a beautiful soprano voice with endearing comic acting, giving a command performance. Matt Lee lights up the stage as chimneysweep Bert, with his sparkling personality and energetic dancing, including a stunning number upside down from the ceiling.
Seasoned performer Philip Quast plays straight-laced banker George Banks and Marina Prior stars as his wife. Whein their orderly household comes under stress, they turn personal adversity into triumph with the help of the high-flying nanny.
The songs made famous in the 1964 movie starring Julie Andrews and composed by the Sherman brothers are just as popular today, with favourites being 'Chim Chim Cher-ee', 'A Spoonful of Sugar', 'Let's Go Fly a Kite' and the legendary 'Supercalifragilisicexpialidocious'.
There are also some new numbers composed for the stage by George Stiles and Anthony Drewe, with a favourite being 'Practically Perfect'.
Many of the songs are performed as big dance routines that would have been at home in 42nd Street. The tap dancing of the chimney sweeps with the London skyline as a backdrop stands out as a highlight.
The quality of the support cast is a major reason for the show's success. Debra Byrne shows her class as the elderly Bird Woman, while Judi Connelli gives a superb, larger-than-life performance as the strict nanny Miss Andrew. Troy Sussman makes the most of a small role as businessman Von Hussler, while also appearing in a variety of ensemble roles.
Playing the key part in Mary Poppins are the Banks children, Jane and Michael. There are five performers for each role, including The King David School student Sara Reed, who performed at the media call, while Hayley Edwards had the honour on opening night. All the kids are talented singers, dancers and actors.
This Mary Poppins musical is a delight for the whole family.
© The Australian Jewish News
