Book: Julian Fellowes
Original Music and Lyrics: Richard M. Sherman & Robert B. Sherman
New Songs and Additional Music and Lyrics: George Stiles & Anthony Drewe
Director: Richard Eyre
It has been well documented that P.L. Travers, author of the original Mary Poppins stories was no huge fan of the Disney movie of her beloved character, so what would she have thought of a live action mega musical? Once describing the book as “the story of her life”, it was inspired by memories from her Australian childhood. Taking some of the extra, slightly darker leads from her novels that were missed from the saccharin-sweet movie, Disney and Cameron Mackintosh undertook the ambitious challenge of transforming the much-beloved family film Mary Poppins into a live musical back in 2004. They faced the daunting task of bringing iconic cinematic moments, rich with hand-drawn cartoons and live-action magic, to the stage without losing the movie’s heart and soul. The result was a spectacular production where they truly threw everything at it – including the collapsing kitchen sink.
This touring version retains all the bells and whistles of the original London production, featuring a re-designed, enormous travelling and rotating doll’s house set of ‘17 Cherry Tree Lane’ and breathtaking projections that guide us through the magical journey with Mary, Bert, Jane and Michael, all thanks to Bob Crowley’s masterful set design (adapted for the tour by Rosalind Coombes and Matt Kinley). The set – illustrated with watercolour artistry – beautifully transports us through turn-of-the-century London, creating an immersive experience for the audience.
William David Brohn’s piano-laden orchestration beautifully balances George Stiles and Anthony Drewe’s additional new songs with the ear-worm original movie songs by Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman, creating a harmonious British sound. Under the direction of Richard Eyre and the co-direction and choreography of Matthew Bourne, the production shines brightly. Stephen Mear’s contribution as co-choreographer ensures that the huge ensemble numbers are nothing short of spectacular.
Jack Chambers reprises his role from the Australian production as Bert, leading the show with warmth, comedy, and exceptional song and dance. A true triple-threat, Chambers captivates the audience from the start, infusing the character with humour and endless energy. Fellow Antipodean Stefanie Jones steps into the role of Mary Poppins with a sterner approach than fans of Julie Andrews might expect, while Michael Xavier’s Basil Fawlty-esque George Banks presents an unusual character choice that thankfully softens in Act Two.
The production features seasoned stage veterans, including Wendy Ferguson as Mrs. Andrews and Rosemary Ashe (who played Mrs. Andrews in the original London cast), returning as Mrs. Brill. Patti Boulaye, a legend of TV, stage, and screen, shines as the Bird Woman, bringing her nostalgic, evocative song to life. The ensemble cast is a phenomenal team, working hard throughout and playing a multitude of characters, adding depth and vibrancy to the performance.
Child actors Olivia Ainsworth and Joshua Miles deliver strong performances as Jane and Michael Banks, capturing the essence of their characters with charm and talent.
At 2 hours and 45 minutes, the show feels a little long – Act One is particularly lengthy. But what would you cut? Perhaps some of the over-used reprises (George Banks’ songs especially spring to mind here). Despite some minor flaws, such as occasional sound balancing issues and an over-long finale sequence, the show delivers huge production numbers, illusion after illusion, and a beautifully sweeping score, taking audiences away on a nostalgic trip down memory lane.
This production of Mary Poppins is a near-perfect delight, offering everything expected from the beloved original film, but with a fresh beat that enchants audiences anew.
Runs until 29 March 2025
The Reviews Hub Score
Near-Perfect
