The cast of WaterTower Theatre’s ‘Mary Poppins.’ (Photo by Paris Marie Productions)
Addison welcomed the arrival of Mary Poppins for a limited engagement at WaterTower Theatre. Friday’s opening night saw a sold-out crowd which was abuzz for the production that showcased the deft talents of the cast, crew and orchestra. The stage version, co-created by Cameron Mackintosh and playwright Julian Fellowes (Downton Abbey) and based on the Disney film and P.L. Travers’ books offered a fresh take on the beloved story that still paid a nice homage to the film.
Co-creator Cameron Mackintosh and story by Julian Fellowes (Downton Abbey) offer a stage version that wasn’t a carbon copy of the movie that so many people grew up with, but a fresh take on that story with new songs by Anthony Drewe and George Stiles.
John De Los Santos directed the show with a lovely touch. The cast seemed relaxed into their roles and brought their familiar characters to life wholeheartedly. De Los Santos gave the show an immersive effect with actors performing and entering from the audience.
As the titular character, Jocelyn Hansen was lovely to watch as the prim governess who had a magical touch. Her Mary felt very much her own, but at the same time, would have made a certain Miss Andrews proud. Her singing was always strong, but the nuance she’d add to her numbers was delectable.
Jon J. Peterson’s Bert was in fine Cockneyed form. He played around with all of Bert’s attributes from kooky chimney sweep to warm-hearted care take. Bert stewards the show through song and Peterson was the right guide for the journey.
Tim Brawner was superbly stuffy as George Banks, the family patriarch who’s more obsessed with his banking work than his wife and children. Olivia Cartwright perhaps had the most compelling arc playing wife Winifred Banks, who was diminished and servile until she bloomed into a woman who stood up for herself.
On Friday’s performance, Alyssa Sabo and Noah Brown held their own as the misbehaved children Jane and Michael Banks who met their match with Mary Poppins. Sabo and Brown both delivered memorable and strong performances keeping up with the music and choreography as well as being adorable and likable.
Other key parts were played by Linda K. Leonard who did double duty as Mrs. Brill, the Banks’ housekeeper who was perpetually flustered and funny. She then gave a total 180 as the Bird Woman in a quiet performance who gifted the audience with a touching “Feed the Birds.” As the fellow house staff Max, Robertson Ay made a big impression with his effective physical comedy the role needed.
Despite being a Disney show, Mary Poppins relied primarily on the power of storytelling and music rather than special effects. The flying scenes on wires and clever tricks like the carpet bag added a touch of magic, but the show’s true allure stemmed from its dialogue and songs bolstered by strong performances.
Cody Dry served as the music director and the accompaniment was always crisp sounding and joyous — particularly in the big, flashy numbers. They were hidden the whole time but filled the room with lush notes that were equally dramatic and upbeat.
Now can we talk about the choreography? No special effects? Fine, but more of De Los Santos’ and Vashy Mompoint’s work please. The choreographers with assistant choreo Bria Tyner crafted stunningly intricate numbers with big crowds onstage all hitting the moves. Their work added a whole other level of rousing energy to the show.
Mary Poppins seemingly resonated with the entire audience which was of all ages effectively through its charm and perhaps, nostalgia. The standing ovation on opening night was well-deserved for the cast and crew who delivered an exceptional performance in a most delightful way.
The show runs through Sunday.
–Rich Lopez